At Tusker Construction Group, we’re passionate about nurturing talent and providing real career opportunities through our various apprenticeship programmes. Our Accounting Technician apprentice, Niall, shares his story about transitioning to a new career path after over a decade in banking. His journey highlights how the ATI (Accounting Technician Ireland) Apprenticeship Programme offers a practical, hands-on route into the world of finance, particularly for mature learners or those seeking an alternative to traditional college courses.

A New Career Path: Niall’s Background

At 39 , Niall had spent 12 years in banking, with his most recent role focusing on Compliance in Anti-Money Laundering. After being made redundant in April 2023, he spent the summer reflecting on his career options before starting the ATI apprenticeship in September 2023. He was attracted to the apprenticeship as he found that learning in a practical, hands-on environment worked better for him.

“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to retrain,” Niall admits. “But when I saw the Accounting Technician Apprenticeship in a Monaghan Institute prospectus, I was intrigued. It allowed me to work and study simultaneously in a practical setting.”

Deciding to Pursue the ATI Apprenticeship

Niall’s decision to join the programme was carefully considered. He wanted to stay in Monaghan and needed a career path with local job prospects. Although initially hesitant about starting an apprenticeship at 39, he found reassurance in knowing that the ATI programme welcomes students of all ages and backgrounds.

“Speaking to those around me, the best advice I received was that the time would pass anyway—I just had to decide what to do with it.”

Tusker Construction hired Niall specifically to join their accounts department through the apprenticeship programme. “The hiring process was a whirlwind. I interviewed on Thursday, was hired on Friday, and started college on Monday.”

The Practical Benefits of the ATI Apprenticeship

Niall highlights how the practical structure of the programme has been a game-changer for him:

• Real-Time Learning: “What I learn in college on Monday becomes real during the week at work. Sometimes I even see something at work that we later cover in class. It’s a two-way learning flow.”
• Supportive Mentorship: “Having a workplace mentor who explains why we do something—not just how—has been essential.”
• Work-Study Balance: Niall works four days a week at Tusker and attends classes at Monaghan Institute on Mondays. This schedule, combined with online lectures and assignments, provides a comprehensive yet flexible learning experience.

Career Opportunities and Long-Term Benefits

The ATI Apprenticeship Programme is more than just an educational pathway—it’s a launchpad for career growth within Tusker Construction Group. As an apprentice, you gain hands-on experience that equips you with the skills needed for various roles within our accounts department. Tusker also supports further qualifications, offering opportunities for those who may want to progress towards becoming fully qualified accountants.

“This programme lets you earn a salary while gaining hands-on experience. It’s a fantastic way to test the waters of accounting without committing to a four-year college course. You’ll gain valuable transferable skills, whether you choose to stay in finance.”

Celebrating Success: A World Skills Awards Finalist

Niall’s hard work and dedication earned him a nomination for Apprentice of the Year at the National Apprenticeship Office- Apprenticeship Awards in 2024. This included speaking on the Hero’s Stage at the World Skills event in the RDS .

“It was an honour to be nominated and speak on stage about my journey as a mature apprentice. Meeting apprentices from other disciplines showed me how far I’d come in just a year.”

Why the ATI Apprenticeship is an Ideal Choice for Mature Learners

Niall encourages anyone considering the ATI programme to take the leap:

“You’re never too old, and you are good enough. Don’t let self-doubt hold you back. A practical learning approach could be exactly what you need to succeed. I took a chance, and it worked out fantastically.”

Final Thoughts

The ATI Apprenticeship Programme offers a practical, supportive, and rewarding pathway into finance—whether you’re a recent school leaver or a mature learner like Niall. With Tusker Construction Group’s range of apprenticeships across Accounting Technician, Civil Engineering, Construction Plant Fitting, Metal Fabrication, and Steel Metalworking, we’re committed to helping individuals build bright futures in construction and beyond.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our apprenticeship opportunities today!