Hollie Foley was crowned Biopharma Apprentice of the Year at the SOLAS National Apprentice of the Year Awards 2026.
An SETU graduate says enrolling on one of the University’s apprenticeship programmes was a great career decision.
Hollie Foley from Callan in County Kilkenny completed the two-year level 6 Laboratory Analyst course at SETU straight from secondary school. She then enrolled on the one-year level 7 course as part of the University’s Laboratory Analyst Apprenticeship Programme, from which she recently graduated.
Hollie, who now works in the microbiology laboratory at MSD Carlow, said her motivation was to gain practical, hands-on experience in science:
“I felt that an apprenticeship would suit my learning style, as it allowed me to combine the theory learned in university with the practical skills required in the workplace.
“My journey began with the level 6 Laboratory Analyst course at SETU Waterford, which I completed over two years, before progressing to the level 7 course for a further year. Throughout this time, I was able to apply the knowledge I gained in college directly to my role in the microbiology laboratory at MSD Carlow,” Hollie said.
One of the biggest highlights has been seeing how much I have developed, both personally and professionally, since leaving secondary school. Completing my level 6 and level 7 qualifications while gaining practical experience at MSD Carlow has been incredibly rewarding
Support at SETU and MSD Carlow
Hollie found the experience at SETU very rewarding and positive:
“The resources and support available at the University made a significant difference to my third-level experience and helped me get the most out of my studies.”
“I also received invaluable support from my manager and mentor at work, as well as my course lead and work-based learner mentor at SETU. Their encouragement, guidance and understanding helped me balance the demands of work and study, develop my confidence and stay focused on my goals. They were always willing to answer questions, offer advice and support my development,” Hollie added.
Hollie believes the ability to combine work and study in this way helped hone her skills:
“Working in the microbiology laboratory at MSD Carlow has allowed me to develop my lab skills, gain an understanding of the biopharmaceutical industry and learn from experienced colleagues. The opportunity to gain valuable work experience while studying made the apprenticeship an ideal pathway for me,” she added.
Award winning
Reflecting on her recent conferring at SETU, Hollie believes she’s been on a very rewarding journey to date:
“One of the biggest highlights has been seeing how much I have developed, both personally and professionally, since leaving secondary school. Completing my level 6 and level 7 qualifications while gaining practical experience at MSD Carlow has been incredibly rewarding,” she said.
The icing on the cake for Hollie was winning the Biopharma Apprentice of the Year at the SOLAS National Apprentice of the Year Awards 2026, having been nominated three years in a row.
“This was an incredibly proud moment for me and made all the hard work, commitment and dedication throughout my apprenticeship feel worthwhile,” she said.
Hollie encourages others to consider enrolling on an apprenticeship programme:
“You get the opportunity to learn from experienced people, build your confidence and develop your career from an early stage.
“I would also encourage students to make full use of the support and resources available at SETU. Everyone learns differently, and asking for support when you need it can make a real difference,” Hollie added.
