Mayo firm aims to to create up to 40 jobs

A Westport based Engineering company hopes to create up to 40 new jobs over the next three years. Horizon West is offering upskilling opportunities to engineers through education in the most cutting-edge technologies and resources.

Launched by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny in December of last year, Horizon West has grown its operation to 20 people at the Westport base and plans to create 40 new jobs throughout the west as part of their initial three-year expansion plan. They provide solutions for manufacturing companies (both FDI and SME) improving and implementing engineering solutions, quality systems and process excellence.

Horizon West currently work with three of the largest multinational companies worldwide as well as a selection of small to medium enterprises. Their ultimate aim is to develop Mayo as a region of excellence.

According to Aiden Corcoran, MD Horizon West, through the company’s work with both FDI and SME manufacturing firms, it is clear the availability of trained, skilled resources is an issue. "We have a strong team, but are continually seeking to develop it to ensure we can deliver to our client requirements."

Mr Corcoran said that many qualified technicians and engineers have been impacted by the recession and the company is reviewing how these individuals could be upskilled to sustain and develop the needs of the region. "We are developing a programme which will give our engineering and technical colleagues the opportunity to be retrained, and moreover, to work with us to build their knowledge and competency. We have commenced discussions with the Government, State Agencies, Trade Organisations and other key stake-holders. We would like to think the region’s FDI's and SME's will see the value of this initiative and support it as current informal discussions have suggested a very warm response so far. We aim to provide training, employment and a boost to Mayo."

Horizon West’s programme will commence in early 2012 and the company will be approaching manufacturing companies in the Mayo region as well as offering interviews to interested potential candidates.

Story courtesy of Westernpeople.ie