Ferm Engineering

⚡ Ferm Feature: James McGowan - Electrical Estimator & Project Manager⚡

Meet James - Mountcharles native, electrical wizard, project mastermind and part-time supplier of office banter. James joined Ferm in 2012 as a young apprentice eager to learn the trade. Four years later, he qualified as an electrician and quickly built a reputation for getting stuck in, getting the job done and generally being the man you'd want on your side when things get complicated. After a short adventure away from Ferm in 2021, he returned in 2024 and now spends his days pricing projects, managing contracts and keeping large-scale jobs on track. His work takes him everywhere from pharmaceutical facilities and public spaces to historic castles, proving that whether it's cutting-edge technology or centuries-old stone walls, James is equally at home. A graduate of the Fitzwilliam Institute, James combines practical know-how with sharp business acumen.

As Joe's trusted right-hand man and unofficial work husband, the pair have become Ferm's answer to Ant & Dec... if Ant & Dec spent their days discussing electrical and mechanical infrastructure and finishing each other's sentences. The perfect M&E pair!
Hard-working, reliable and always up for a laugh, James brings great energy to the team. He wins tenders, manages projects, solves problems and still finds time to spark some of the office's most interesting debates. We wouldn't have him any other way. Thanks for your hard work James⚡👏

⭐️ Ferm Feature: Mary Friel ⭐️

Often described as the voice of reason at Ferm, Mary Friel has been a valued member of the team for over 11 years, staring 26 May 2015.

As our Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Manager, Mary oversees the process documentation and manuals required for project completion. However, from the moment she joined Ferm, it became clear that her talents extended far beyond her official role.

Today, Mary is also the welcoming face of Ferm, managing our front of house and main reception desk. She is often the first person you'll speak to when you call the office, always greeting everyone with her signature friendly and positive hello. She knows how to keep everyone on their feet but in the most patient way.

Alongside managing O&Ms and handling the many queries that come through the office with immeasurable memory, Mary works closely with the team on sizeable client tenders, reports, and course bookings. She also oversees our induction process for new starters, ensuring every new team member receives a warm welcome from day one.

An impeccable fashionista in her own right, Mary is also the go-to person for all things Ferm apparel and workwear. We're all eagerly awaiting the launch of the new AW '26 gilets!

When she’s not keeping our sanity in check in the office, you’ll find Mary exploring the globe on a cruise with John or enjoying her weekly coffee dates with her sisters!

Thank you, Mary, for everything you do. Your dedication, sincerity and positivity help keep Ferm running smoothly every day. 😉❤️



Photo by Barbara McGroary Photography

🌟 Ferm Feature: Kathleen McCauley 🌟

This time, we're shining a spotlight on Kathleen McCauley, our Payroll & Administration Manager.

Kathleen has been an integral part of the Ferm team for almost eight years, having joined us in September 2018. A true Sage and Intact software expert, Kathleen ensures our team is paid accurately and on time, while also managing expenses, employee timesheets, staff holidays, and calendars.

Her role extends far beyond payroll. Kathleen handles an ever-growing volume of SEAI grant paperwork and oversees a range of key administrative functions, including fleet management and coordinating apprenticeship training books with the ETB. The list continues...

When Kathleen isn't keeping our operations running smoothly, you'll likely find her singing with her local choir or staying active through Pilates.

Thank you, Kathleen, for your dedication, professionalism, and all the hard work you put in every day. We're so lucky to have you on the Ferm team! 👏

FERM Feature ⭐️ JOE DUFFY ⭐️

Next up in the Ferm Roll Call we have Joe Duffy. Joe joined Ferm over 11 years ago in January 2015 and has played a key role in the pricing and project management of many impressive projects. From AbbVie Sligo and Abbott Donegal to Sligo University Hospital to name a few, Joe has helped deliver some outstanding work over the years. Joe's experience across the commercial, public, pharmaceutical and educational sectors has been a huge asset to the team and our clients alike.

Born a Leitrim boy, Joe became a skilled negotiator with a trademark (blow-in) Bundoran charm, and a knack for building strong relationships and keeping projects on track. Clients love him, colleagues respect him, and Joe himself remains completely humble about the whole thing... naturally.

Whether he's pricing projects, managing jobs, or quietly convincing Jim and everyone that his way is the best way, Joe's dedication, expertise and good humour make him an invaluable part of the Ferm team. Thanks for all the hard work, commitment and laughs over the years, Joe! 😉

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FERM Feature: ⭐️ Stephanie Kyles ⭐️

We're kicking off our Ferm Features with Stephanie Kyles - Account Manager. Stephanie has worked with Ferm Eng for over 19 years, starting in April of 2007. She has been with the business through many years of growth, challenges and changes and has been the backbone of the business managing all expenses and key accounts; ensuring our clients, customers and suppliers are all supported. Her meticulous record keeping and organisation skills are second to none. And most profoundly of all, she has the patience of a Saint. If you know Jim... you know. Thank you for your ongoing dedication and hard work, Stephanie.