Joe Gantly Prize in Engineering

20 Mar 2026

This year’s recipients of the Joe Gantly Prize in Engineering have been announced, recognising outstanding performance in the Work Placement module across the ME (Hons) programmes at University College Cork.

The recipients are:

John Scanlan (ME Civil & Structural Engineering)
John completed his placement with PJ Hegarty & Sons on the Apple Campus Extension in Cork City. During the placement, his responsibilities grew substantially, culminating in his management and delivery of a key terrace area that now serves as a major focal point at the front of the building. 

Kate Donovan (ME Process & Chemical Engineering)
Kate undertook her placement at Eli Lilly and Company in Dunderrow, Kinsale. Throughout her placement she contributed notable process improvements within their cancer drug manufacturing operations.

Runners‑up:

• Mark Maguire, ME Electrical & Electronic Engineering
• Daniel O’Reilly, ME Energy Engineering

The Joe Gantly Prize commemorates the late Joe Gantly, a Civil Engineering graduate of Trinity College Dublin who made a significant impact on industry and education in Cork. His distinguished career included roles as Director of European Operations at Apple Computers, President of Cork Chamber, Chairman of the Cork Airport Authority and Governor of UCC.

In recognition of his contributions to both Cork’s business community and UCC, Cork Chamber provides an annual donation of €1,500 to support the prize. Naoimh Frawley represented Cork Chamber at this year’s presentation.

The prize continues to highlight the achievements of ME students who demonstrate exceptional professional development and impact during their work placements across industry.