UL students Erin Lynch (front) and Clodagh Kearns (right), recipients of this year’s Women in Aviation Scholarship, with (on left) Deirdre Norris, Senior HR Business Partner GECAS and Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development, UL Foundation Picture: Arthur Ellis
Monday, 11 January 2021

Two first year engineering students at University of Limerick have received scholarships from Shannon-based aircraft lessor GECAS.

GECAS and the UL School of Engineering have announced first-year students Erin Lynch, from Meath, and Clodagh Kearns, from Cork, as the recipients of this year’s Women in Aviation Scholarship.

This is the second year of the scholarship which is open to female students of the Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering course at UL.

Last year, Cork student Ciara Hurley became the first recipient of the scholarship, which aims to drive increased engagement by female students in Aeronautical Engineering.

Erin and Clodagh will each receive a €5,000 bursary for each year of their studies, resulting in a total of €20,000 over the course of their studies. The Women in Aviation Scholarship is awarded to individuals based on academic achievement and passion for aviation.

Sarah Hartnett, Director of Development, University of Limerick Foundation said: “The fact that GECAS has chosen to award two student scholarships this year is a testament to the high calibre of female student in this area. 

“We thank GECAS for their leadership and generosity, and hope that these scholarships will encourage more young women to consider the fantastic career opportunities that exist in engineering and the aviation industry,” Ms Hartnett added.

Deirdre Norris, HR Business Partner, GECAS said: “GECAS is proud to help drive female engagement in aeronautical engineering and kick-start the student’s journey towards a career in the sector through the Women in Aviation Scholarship.

“Given the challenging year that it has been, particularly for students, we are delighted to support not one but two deserving young women. Diversity in the workplace has long been recognised as a benefit to any organisation and it is vital that we continue to cultivate and ensure a strong pipeline of female talent within our aviation industry,” she added.