South East Technological University (SETU) has celebrated 40 years of Construction Management education, bringing together graduates to reconnect, reflect on their experiences and celebrate a proud educational legacy.
Established in 1986, the Construction Management degree was the first of its kind in Ireland. The programme has evolved from Waterford Regional Technical College through Waterford Institute of Technology and now forms a cornerstone of construction education at SETU.
More than 1,000 graduates have gone on to make significant contributions to the construction industry, shaping the built environment across the South East, throughout Ireland and internationally.
Over 200 alumni, industry leaders, SETU staff and students gathered at SETU’s Cork Road Campus on Friday afternoon to mark the 40th anniversary of the programme.
President of SETU, Professor Veronica Campbell, recognising the legacy of the programme and SETU’s continued commitment to industry-focused education, said:
“Today is about celebrating 40 years of the Construction Management programme, its tradition of innovation and its strong connection to industry. The programme pioneered industrial placement long before it became commonplace in higher education, combining academic knowledge with practical experience. That connection with industry remains central to its success.
“It is also an opportunity to recognise the extraordinary contributions of our graduates, many of whom have gone on to lead major projects, establish businesses, shape policy and mentor future generations of professionals.”
“This celebration is not only a reflection on past achievements, but also an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between SETU and its Construction Management alumni community. Their experience, expertise and insight are invaluable as we continue to evolve our programmes and prepare the next generation of professionals for a rapidly changing world,” she added.
Dr Ken Thomas, Head (Waterford) Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, said: “The great success of the Construction Management degree and associated programmes over the past 40 years is a testament to the excellent programme leaders, lecturers and support team. We are very proud of all the graduates who have played, and are playing, key roles in the Irish and global construction industries.”
Presentations were made to past and present programme leaders Eugene O’Sullivan and Dr Brian Graham in recognition of their significant contributions to Construction Management education.
The programme’s legacy is reflected in the work of its graduates, many of whom continue to shape major construction and infrastructure projects. Among them are Ken Cleere (1995) and David Hoban (2015), who are managing BAM’s construction of SETU’s new Engineering, Computing and General Teaching Building. James Frisby (2012) is involved in the Glassworks project, while Antóin Cummins (2001) is leading BAM’s North Quays Infrastructure Project in Waterford city.
Speaking about the lasting connections formed through the programme, Construction Management alumnus Ken Cleere said:
“No matter where life and our careers have taken us, our reunions always bring us back to SETU in Waterford. The friendships and sense of belonging that grew from our time on the Construction Management course have had a lasting impact on us all. That connection is a big part of why we have such a strong alumni network to celebrate 40 years of Construction Management education.”
SETU is committed to building on the programme’s legacy, growing close links with industry and equipping future graduates with the knowledge, practical experience and skills to shape the built environment for generations to come.
