MARK
O' CONNELL
Lead by Example
About Mark
Hi there, I’m Mark O’ Connell!
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I’m 32 years old and originally from the southwest of Ireland, the beautiful town of Killarney in County Kerry, a place where mountains, lakes, and valleys are basically part of the family. Growing up under the shadow of Carrauntoohil (Ireland’s highest peak) gave me a lifelong love for being outdoors… and a slightly unrealistic idea of what “a quick walk” means to other people.
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Since June 2017, I’ve called Eindhoven, the Netherlands, home. It’s been a wonderful experience, though, as someone who grew up with a dramatic, vast landscape, I’ve developed a whole new appreciation for land elevation (or the lack of it!). Flat or not, the Dutch landscape has its own quiet charm that’s won me over.
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I’m a qualified engineer with my bachelor’s degree, specialising in manufacturing engineering.
I am currently employed in the semiconductor sector as a tester engineer. In addition to this, I'm pursuing a master's degree in project management at Michael Smurfit Business School, University College Dublin.
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In my spare time, I love fuelling my passions for photography and painting. Both of these have taught me the importance of paying attention to the little details in life, highlighting the importance of following a process for skill development and learning. I have, in ways, carried over these skills into my professionalism.
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My current goal is to complete my Master’s studies. I dream that someday I will be traveling Europe on a motorcycle with my camera and getting lost in the wild landscapes of Patagonia, Argentina, documenting my adventure through my lens.
EDUCATION
Academic Achievements
MSc in Project Management
I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Project Management designed for working professionals with a global outlook. Through this program, I’m building expertise in scoping and planning complex initiatives, setting and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), managing budgets and schedules, and delivering measurable ROI. I’m also strengthening my skills in agile and hybrid methodologies, stakeholder engagement, risk and change management, and cross-functional team leadership. These capabilities are equipping me to align projects with strategic objectives, optimize resources, and ensure on-time, on-budget delivery in dynamic international environments.
BSc (Honours) in Manufacturing Engineering
I graduated with First Class Honours, demonstrating strong academic performance across a broad range of engineering disciplines. My coursework included CAE, Process Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Software Engineering, Process Control, Facility Simulation and Reliability, Process Evaluation and Networks, Manufacturing Technology, Operations Management, and Design for Manufacture. During a collaborative project with NYPRO Healthcare, I developed and implemented process improvements for the QVAR inhaler automated assembly line (optimizing stations such as ultrasonic welders and heat sink apparatus), to reduce downtime and scrap, while increasing throughput. This project strengthened my skills in data analysis, process optimization, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving within high-volume manufacturing environments, while also enhancing my ability to translate technical insights into practical, measurable outcomes.
BEng (Ordinary) in Manufacturing Engineering
I successfully completed my third-year studies with a Pass with Distinction, demonstrating strong academic performance across a broad range of engineering disciplines. My coursework included Manufacturing Technology, Engineering Design Process and Operations, Process Control, Mechatronics I and II, Differential Equations, Dynamics and Control, Robotics and Automated Materials Handling, and Operations Management. As part of my course project, I designed and manufactured a scaled replica of a Low-Temperature Differential (LTD) Stirling Engine model, which strengthened my skills in precision engineering, design application, and hands-on problem-solving.
Higher Certificate in Agricultural Engineering
Over two years, I completed an intensive program that covered both the theoretical and practical aspects of engineering. In my first year, I studied Instrument Technology, Engineering Science, Engineering Mechanics, Power Units, Engineering Drawing, and Engineering Mathematics, establishing a strong foundation in engineering principles and technical communication. In my second year, I advanced to Farm Machinery, Mechanics of Materials, Strength of Materials, Dairy Engineering, Computer-Aided Drafting, Engineering Mathematics, Power Units, and Workshop Organisation and Material Control, which further enhanced my analytical, problem-solving, and design skills. As part of my 2nd year project, I manufactured a reduction gearbox and built a replica from the provided drawings using various machining methods. This experience strengthened my proficiency in precision manufacturing, technical drawing interpretation, computer-aided drafting, and project execution, as well as my ability to work independently and manage resources effectively.
St. Brendan's College Secondary School
I completed my Leaving Certificate with four Honours subjects, including a C3 in Agricultural Science and in Design and Communications Graphics. My additional subjects included Mathematics, French, Geography, English, and Irish, reflecting a well-rounded academic foundation.
2025 - Present
(MSc in Project Management)
2016 - 2017
(BSc (Hons) in Manufacturing Engineering)
2015 - 2016
(BEng (Ordinary) in Manufacturing Engineering)
2011 - 2013
(Higher Certificate in Agricultural Engineering)
2005 - 2010
(St. Brendan's College Secondary School)
COURSES COMPLETED
Microsoft Program Management Professional Certificate
Info: An online non-credit 7 course series authorized by Microsoft and offered through Coursera
Program Management Fundamentals
Team Building and Leadership in Program Management
Communication with Stakeholders
Performance Domains in Project Management
Agile and Hybrid Approaches
Program Finance and Investment
High Performing PMOs
Operations Systems Excellence
Info: An online non-credit course authorized by University of London and offered through Coursera
Consulting Approach to Problem Solving
Info: An online non-credit course authorized by Emory University and offered through
Coursera
Introduction to Programming with MATLAB
Info: An online non-credit course authorized by Vanderbilt University and offered through
Coursera
Modeling and Simulation with Simulink
Info: An online non-credit course authorized by MathWorks and offered through
Coursera
EXPERIENCE
Professional Background
ASML June 2017 - Present
Test Engineer (Senior / Shift Lead)
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Prepared and served high-quality meals, ensuring all food preparation tasks were completed efficiently and to standard.
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Maintained exceptional hygiene and safety practices in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
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Demonstrated strong time management and organisational skills to meet service deadlines.
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Collaborated with team members to deliver excellent customer experiences
Killarney Court Hotel 2014 - 2016
Kitchen Porter / Kitchen Assistant
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Worked collaboratively within a small team to manage farmyard operations and maintain land, livestock, and equipment in a fast-paced, seasonal environment.
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Performed milking-parlour and dairy hygiene procedures to ensure high standards of animal welfare, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
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Managed daily livestock care, including health monitoring, disease prevention, and assisting with delivery and care of newborn animals.
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Conducted farm maintenance and infrastructure projects such as laying concrete, block laying, welding, repairing water supply pipelines, and operating heavy machinery.
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Oversaw crop preservation for winter feed and implemented safety-focused practices while handling equipment, animals, and materials.
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Built strong problem-solving, organisational, and safety-conscious skills adaptable to dynamic work environments.
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Lead shift operations and testing activities for the Wafer Stage Module of NXT systems, ensuring precision assembly, calibration, and verification to meet stringent customer and regulatory specifications.
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Collaborate closely with a cross-functional team while Coordinating and mentoring a small team in a fast-paced high-tech manufacturing environment to deliver subsystems on time and to world-class quality standards.
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Apply lean manufacturing principles and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce defects, and optimize performance.
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Maintain strict adherence to safety, quality, and process controls while testing and releasing high-precision products.
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Recognised for a proven track record in delivering complex products and subsystems to tight deadlines with exceptional attention to detail and reliability.
Fáilte Hotel Aug. - Nov. 2016
Assistant cook / Kitchen Assistant
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Worked collaboratively with a multidisciplinary kitchen team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment to ensure smooth operations.
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Ensured proper storage of stock and maintained a clean, hygienic, and well-organised kitchen in full compliance with food safety and health regulations.
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Managed linen deliveries and handled washing and drying of kitchen crockery to support seamless service.
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Assisted in food preparation and cooking, adapting quickly to changing priorities and service demands.
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Strengthened time management, organisational, and safety-focused practices under dynamic conditions.
Shrone Dairy Farm 2007 - 2013
Farm Labourer
SKILLS
Communication
To me, communication means much more than just exchanging information, it’s about genuinely building trust and working together towards our shared goals. I try to be clear and straightforward during meetings and in my written updates, so everyone feels informed and appreciated. I truly believe the best teamwork happens when people feel safe and comfortable to share their ideas, and I make an effort to create that kind of friendly space. Listening carefully and valuing different perspectives is very important to me because it helps foster a team culture full of empathy and respect. I adapt my communication style based on who I’m talking to, always aiming for clarity and mutual understanding. Whether I’m giving feedback or resolving conflicts, I stay honest and open, focusing on what’s best for the entire team. Ultimately, I want everyone to feel heard and respected, so we can all contribute to a positive, welcoming work environment.
Teamwork & Collaboration
I’m genuinely passionate about creating a team environment where everyone feels at ease to speak up and show mutual respect. I always strive to encourage open listening, sharing, and learning from each other because that’s how we all truly grow together. My focus is on building lively, collaborative teams that enjoy working side by side to solve problems and achieve our goals, making the journey enjoyable for everyone.
Work Ethic
I truly value my strong work ethic, careful attention to detail, and always acting with integrity. I’m flexible and adaptable to changing needs, manage my time effectively, and am committed to delivering high-quality results. As a self-motivated and proactive team member, I enjoy taking the initiative and looking for ways to help our team succeed.
Problem Solving
I love exploring problems by carefully examining the data and details to truly understand what's happening. This approach helps me make thoughtful decisions and share my ideas in a clear, fact-based way. I find that breaking things down step-by-step not only makes the problem seem less overwhelming but also helps me communicate my thoughts more effectively, making it easier for others to connect with what I’m saying.
Big Picture Perspective
I possess a talent for taking a step back and perceiving the broader perspective, which enables me to maintain composure and focus even during busy periods. I derive satisfaction from anticipating future developments, thereby allowing me to lead my team with clarity and steadiness. It is fundamentally about discerning the appropriate moments to intervene and when to entrust others with leadership.
Recommendations
Matija Vucic,
Mechatronics Technical Support Engineer, ASML
"I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Mark for the past four years. Throughout this time, Mark has consistently demonstrated the qualities that define an exceptional colleague—reliability, awareness, and a genuine willingness to support others. His attentiveness to production status and readiness to assist at any moment make him a trusted and dependable team member. Mark is someone you can always count on, and his presence has been a valuable asset to our team."
Yohan Handoyo,
System Performance Generalist Engineer, ASML
"I’ve had the pleasure of working with Mark and have always appreciated his strong work ethic and clear communication. He approaches tasks with a practical mindset and a focus on getting things done, which makes collaboration smooth and productive."
Michael O' Sullivan,
Technical Support Group Lead, ASML
“If there's one thing I can say about Mark, it's that he is incredibly gifted conversationalist. Having such a wide and varied background, he can talk to anyone about anything. In work he shows both initiative to take action on small details, as well as a drive for the pushing for high level improvements. This combination of abilities makes him someone that gains great appreciation from a range of stakeholders in our organisation.”
Niall Hunt,
Test and Integration Engineer, Iwell
"I wasn’t too sure about Mark when I first met him. Standing there in Dublin Airport, on the same flight to Eindhoven to start our new jobs at ASML, and I remember thinking, 'Here we go, stuck with this Kerry lad for the next few years.' Thankfully, I couldn’t have been more wrong. From the moment we started, he proved to be one of the hardest-working and most dependable people on my team. Whether it was tackling long shifts or solving last-minute technical issues, he always brought focus, humour, and a calm attitude to the mix. Outside of work, he’s just as solid, down-to-earth, good company, and the kind of person everyone’s happy to be around."
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