‘Sometimes, you just have to take that leap of faith’

Don’t give up on finding a career that truly suits you, even if it takes a little longer than you imagined.

That’s according to Sophie Murphy, who was recently awarded the Rising Star award at the Network Cork Businesswomen of the year awards, where she was lauded for being a powerful advocate for young women in engineering.

Just a few years ago, it was something that Sophie, 27, would have struggled to imagine.

She completed her Leaving Cert in St Aidan’s Community College in 2016 but decided not to automatically proceed to third level.

“At the time, I was just unsure about my interests and career direction, but then, as I began exploring various job opportunities, I became increasingly worried that I might be running out of time to find the right fit for me,” said Sophie.

“But I needn’t have been and that’s the message I want to get out there to other young people.”

She started working in Boston Scientific as a product builder when she was 21 after spending two years as a make-up artist.

“The inconsistent hours, inconsistent income, and weekend work got to me and I decided to jump into something totally different, just focusing on consistency.

“I applied to Boston Scientific through an agency, and at the time I had no idea about the processes of manufacturing medical devices; I just saw this as income and regular hours. I didn’t have any determination or interest in progression or going to college, and I thought that it had passed me, which is crazy to think of now.

“During my time at Boston Scientific, I gained valuable insights into the daily responsibilities of engineers and actively collaborated with them on improvement projects.

“I was excited to be part of a cost improvement initiative that won a Silver VIP Award in 2020, resulting in significant cost savings of €750K. This experience ignited a passion within me and encouraged me to take a leap of faith and apply for an apprenticeship programme with J&J MedTech in 2021,” she said.

In fact, it was Sophie’s mother who saw an ad for the programme and convinced her to apply for it, even if Sophie felt it was something women wouldn’t apply for.

She was wrong!

“I got the job and started in the Calibration Department there as an apprentice in May, 2021, the first female in the department!”

Initially, it was going to be a three-year programme, qualifying Sophie, but MTU introduced an extra year.

“I received a first-class honours in a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and have just finished my four years at JJ MedTech, qualified and have a permanent role with the company,” she said proudly.

She has recently transitioned into a new role in the company.

“In this position, I am focusing on key projects aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and scaling up our capabilities in the area. There’s a steep learning curve ahead. I recognise there’s a lot to absorb before I can dive into the projects with full confidence. However, I am genuinely excited about the opportunity to expand my knowledge and gain experience in this new area,” she said.

She joined Network Cork earlier this year with the aim of broadening her horizons and connecting with fellow professionals, and winning the Rising Star award was, she said, an incredible surprise.

“It really made me realise how much hard work I’ve put in and the amazing support I’ve received from my colleagues and mentors.

“When my name was announced, I was completely overwhelmed with joy and nerves—I’ve never experienced recognition like that before! This award has motivated me to keep pushing forward, and it’s inspired me to help others on their journeys too.

“Overall, it was a truly memorable moment, and I’m so proud to have been recognised this way.”

The judge’s citation read on the night of the awards said: ‘Choices are one thing… determination, insight and initiative are another. This applicant proves that the latter will always come to the fore. A wonderful advocate for young women in engineering.’

“Hearing these words about me made me so proud of my achieve-ments to date and determined to promote women in engineering,” said Sophie, who is actively involved in transition year visits on-site and enjoys giving talks to students about the apprenticeship programme.

“I’d like to emphasise the importance of not giving up on finding a career that truly suits you. It’s all about taking risks and being brave enough to step outside your comfort zone.

“Pursuing your passions can lead to incredible opportunities—sometimes, you just have to take that leap of faith!”