Meet Rachel Dermody, a young woman who defies stereotypes by operating heavy machinery in the male-dominated earthmoving industry.
With a background in agriculture, driving tractors on her family's farm, Rachel discovered her passion for working with massive equipment at Loughnane Concrete and has been a valuable member of the team for five years.
Her remarkable skills, dedication, and passion have earned her respect and admiration from colleagues and superiors. In her spare time, she expresses her artistic side through intricate mandala creations, showcasing her attention to detail.
Rachel's journey serves as an inspiration for breaking barriers and pursuing one's passions, highlighting the potential for inclusivity and diversity in the construction industry.
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Christy Loughnane -
Rachel Dermody
- Rachel Dermody’s next goal is to master operating excavators. While she is familiar with loaders and dumpers, handling a digger presents a fresh challenge. Colleagues are already guiding her training, and she eagerly anticipates acquiring the official license for this more demanding machinery soon.
- If Rachel weren't operating heavy machinery, she would have chosen art as her career path. During breaks, she embraces her artistic side in the cabin. With a collection of cardboard sheets, a fine brush, and golden paint, she meticulously creates breathtaking mandalas that often take weeks, if not months, to complete.
- According to Rachel, the only difference in operating heavy machinery as a woman compared to a man is the seat height. Sometimes the seats don't lower enough for her, so she has to sit up on top of the steering wheel to feel more comfortable with the machine. Her colleagues find it amusing when they get into the machine after her and have to sit on top of the steering wheel. Other than this, she notices no other significant differences.
In this series
Christy Loughnane, Managing Director of Loughnane Concrete, guides the thriving 65-acre quarry in Birr, Ireland.
With four decades of commitment, his journey intertwines with the company's growth, embracing challenges and fostering a caring environment.
Valuing his team as treasures, he treats them with genuine affection and sees no gender barriers in hiring.
Christy is not only a skilled professional but also the beating heart of Loughnane Quarry, embodying its truest spirit.
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When a young Rachel Dermody casually walked into Loughnane Concrete quarry in Birr for the first time, little did she know it would become not just her workplace, but a true second home.
It was fate and a fortunate opportunity, along with the foresight of owner Christy Loughnane, that led her to find her path and discover a genuine passion upon which she now builds her future.
Unravel her story of determination, destiny, and the power of finding one's true calling amidst the concrete walls of Loughnane Quarry!