Details
1-day course
CPD Credit: 7 hours; Competence/s: 1
Course Delivery Options
In-company Training: Click here for further information on in-company courses or email incompanycpd@engineersireland.ie for a customised quote
Course Overview
This course explores the scale, complexity, and diversity of
global mega projects that rely on advanced engineering expertise. It highlights
how engineering disciplines are applied across sectors such as semiconductor
manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and large-scale industrial developments.
The course demonstrates the international nature of engineering, showcasing how
professionals contribute to transformative projects worldwide and the skills
required to succeed in these high-impact environments.
Course Aim
The purpose of this course is to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of global mega projects and the critical role engineering plays in their successful delivery. It will introduce key principles such as project scale, multidisciplinary integration, stakeholder coordination, and technological innovation. Participants will gain insight into the lifecycle of mega projects, from concept through execution, and develop an appreciation for the strategic, technical, and organisational challenges involved.
A critical component of global mega project success is the ability to maximise productivity while minimising delays. This course examines the key factors that impact project performance, drawing on real-world examples from large-scale engineering and construction programmes.
Course Programme
High-Level Agenda:
1. Introduction to Mega Projects
- Definition, scale, and global significance
- Key sectors (semiconductors, infrastructure, energy, etc.)
2. Global Engineering Landscape
- Engineering disciplines in mega projects
- International collaboration and workforce mobility
3. Mega Project Lifecycle
- Concept, feasibility, design, execution, and commissioning
- Case study examples
4. Common Causes of Delays in Mega Projects
- Design inefficiencies and late-stage changes
- Supply chain disruptions and material shortages
- Labour shortages and skills gaps
- Poor interface management between disciplines
- Ineffective project governance and decision-making
- Regulatory and permitting challenges
5. Productivity Challenges in Large-Scale Engineering
- Fragmentation of project teams
- Rework due to coordination failures
- Lack of standardisation and repeatability
- Inefficient site logistics and sequencing
6. Strategies for Productivity Improvement
- Adoption of digital tools (BIM, digital twins, data analytics)
- Lean construction principles and workflow optimisation
- Modularisation and off-site fabrication
- Improved planning and scheduling methodologies
- Strengthening supply chain integration
- Workforce planning and skills development
7. Case Studies and Lessons Learned
- Examples from semiconductor, infrastructure, and industrial projects
- Analysis of productivity gains and delay mitigation strategies
Learning Outcomes/Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, delegates should be able to:
- Define what constitutes a global mega project and identify its key characteristics
- Explain the lifecycle stages of mega projects and associated engineering activities
- Identify the challenges involved in coordinating large, multidisciplinary teams
- Analyse case studies to understand success factors and common risks
- Identify the primary causes of delays in global mega projects
- Analyse productivity challenges within large-scale engineering environments
- Evaluate strategies and tools used to improve project efficiency
- Apply best practices to mitigate delays and enhance productivity in project delivery
- Evaluate the impact of emerging technologies on future mega projects
- Outline career pathways and required competencies for engineers in global projects
Pre-requisites
A basic understanding of engineering or project environments
is beneficial, but no prior experience in mega projects is required.
Trainer Profile
Richard Casey is an experienced engineering and construction professional with a strong track record in delivering complex, large-scale projects across the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors. He has played a key role in the development and execution of high-value, technically demanding programmes, working at the intersection of engineering, project delivery, and strategic business growth.
With extensive experience in global project environments, Richard has been involved in the planning, integration, and delivery of major capital projects, supporting multinational clients and collaborating with diverse, cross-functional teams. His expertise spans project lifecycle management, engineering coordination, organisational development, and the establishment of new business units within structured corporate environments.
Richard brings a practical, real-world perspective to training, combining technical knowledge with insights into global project dynamics, stakeholder management, and emerging industry trends. He is particularly focused on the evolving role of engineering in mega projects, including the growth of semiconductor infrastructure and the increasing importance of innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration.
Please contact the CPD Training Team for further information on scheduled course dates and In-Company options.