by Marianne Flood

Two Derry students have graduated with First Class Honours with the help of a local engineering company.

Both 38-year-old Michael Doran and 23-year-old Hayley McCready graduated from the School of Mechanical Engineering Manufacturing at the Magee Campus of the University of Ulster, which is supported by DuPont.

Mr Doran, who has worked at DuPont for over 10 years, said he is excited to utilising what he has learnt.

“When the opportunity came up to do this course four years ago, I jumped at it and I am delighted that the hard work has finally paid off.

“I’d like to thank DuPont for their help in achieving a First and I look forward to putting what I have learned to good use at Maydown.”

Ms McCready, who completed a year’s work experience at DuPont, said her time at the plant helped her achieve her academic dreams: “My year at DuPont was invaluable as I had direct access to qualified engineers who offered me practical experience in delivering engineering solutions.

“I believe that the support and experience at DuPont has helped me earn a First Class honours degree and I’d like to say thank you to everyone who helped me during my year there.”

Paul Kirkpatrick, Organisation Manager at DuPont paid tribute to the students: “We couldn’t be prouder of Michael and Hayley in achieving the top result in their engineering Degree.

“It’s fair to say that they have both been exceptional students.

“Michael has worked at DuPont for ten years and had to balance a busy home-life, two kids and his job at DuPont in order to achieve his First.

“Hayley spent one year at DuPont and it is no understatement to say that she made a wonderful team member and contributed greatly during her time here.”

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