CMETB Celebrates Ireland’s First-Ever National Manufacturing Day

Cavan and Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB) celebrated Ireland’s first-ever National Manufacturing Day on Friday, 3 October 2025, a landmark initiative led by Ibec to highlight the innovation, skills, and career opportunities within the country’s manufacturing sector.

In partnership with Ibec, CMETB hosted an Employer Information Event at their newest OEM Engineering Apprenticeship workshop in Milltown Business Park, Monaghan town. Local employers were invited to attend live demonstrations and presentations, exploring the vital role manufacturing plays in creating jobs and supporting regional economic growth.

Ibec, Ireland’s largest business representative group with 7,500 member companies, launched this first-of-its-kind national event to showcase the country’s world-class manufacturing sector and its significant contribution to the economy, innovation, and workforce development.

The CMETB event gave employers the opportunity to explore the OEM Apprenticeship programme, engage with apprentices, and witness firsthand the skills being developed for the future of Ireland’s engineering and manufacturing industries.

Speakers at the event included Shane Beirne, Senior Executive, Engineering Industries Ireland, Ibec; Martin Mc Vicar, Combilift; and Conor Doolan, Irish Rail. Attendees also heard from past and present  OEM apprentices, sharing their experiences and career journeys.

Manufacturing Day 2025 highlighted the sector’s dynamic workforce, technological innovation, and the career pathways it offers to young people and experienced professionals alike.