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Through Mercury’s Graduate Programme I got to work on world class Life Sciences projects in Denmark and Belgium
Kolade Abiodun grew up in Ballyfermot, Dublin and always had a passion for maths. “In school I was definitely a problem solver and critical thinker- I enjoyed finding solutions” he notes. This interest was noticed by a teacher who encouraged him to consider studying engineering.
He started a general-entry engineering course at TU Dublin in 2020 amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and was soon drawn to the mechanical field. After graduating as a mechanical engineer in 2024, Mercury’s graduate programme was “a natural next step.” During his time at TU Dublin, Kolade had met former students of his course who went on to complete the graduate programme and recommended it. “I also spoke with some of the Mercury team at a recruitment day the college held.”
Kolade’s hands-on experience at Mercury
Kolade started the programme in September 2024 and found himself “learning more than ever.” The experience was, he says, “very well structured.” “I enjoyed the training weeks every six months where all the graduates from across Europe came together. We learned about Mercury and trends in the construction industry, but also a lot of helpful professional skills.” Graduates attend workshops on key skills like leadership and communication from Mercury experts and external professional-development trainers. “Our coordinator Becky Caulfield and the team at the Irish Management Institute were really supportive and helpful throughout too.”
Kolade started as a Quality Engineer on a large-scale Life Sciences project outside Dublin. “It was a really hands on experience and the team supported me from day one.” “I learned the value of quality really fast, particularly in Life Sciences facilities which will produce critical medicines.” His role involved testing packs and reviewing any quality snags that appeared.
Projects in Denmark and Belgium
After a year on this project, Kolade began working with a new team, developing Standard Operating Procedures to be implemented on all of Mercury’s Life Sciences projects. “We took our learnings from the previous project and other work Mercury had done into account. These SOPs will help our Life Sciences projects be built to world-class standards for clients” he notes.
In recent months, Kolade has worked on projects being built across Europe. He has reviewed packs for a soon to be completed Life Sciences facility in Denmark. “We ensure that all materials used are correct and necessary certifications are in place. We developed a folder of proof to show the client that all quality standards have been met.” He’s “looking forward to the challenge” of working with a new team as Mercury is set to commence another Life Sciences project in Belgium.
I enjoy my work because of the great team around me
What skills has he developed most since joining the company? “I’ve definitely improved my attention to detail, which is crucial in quality.” He continues, “I’ve learned a lot from the people around me.” Kolade feels empowered to continue growing his own career, “I want to manage my own team one day” he says. “I enjoy my work because of the great team around me and the supportive, open culture.” His graduate programme experience has taught him “the value of professional and personal growth and I try to get 1% better every day.”
Mercury’s 2026-28 graduate programme is open for applications. Find out more and apply here.
