Global automotive technology provider, Keyloop, has awarded its bursary to a student at Munster Technological University (MTU) for the second year, demonstrating the strength of the ongoing partnership between MTU and Keyloop.

The winner this year was Saoirse Power (aged 20), who studies Automotive Business Management and Technology at the university and was awarded the bursary through an online ceremony. A total of seven students applied for the bursary, with Saoirse being selected due to her outstanding level of professionalism and enthusiasm for the automotive industry.

Speaking on being awarded the bursary, Saoirse Power said: “I’m thrilled to be awarded with the bursary from Keyloop in recognition of my academic achievement and potential, and grateful for all the support MTU offers. The bursary will help me to focus on my studies and it will grow my passion for automotive management and technology. I’d love to work in the service team as an advisor or on warranties. I hope to spend a day each week working in the industry, and I can’t wait to get back after the summer and onto the next year of the course.”

MTU launched its BSc (Hons) in Automotive Business Management & Technology in 2018, with the valued support of Keyloop, aiming to give students deeper exposure to automotive technology and management. Keyloop then launched its bursary the following year to support students and nurture future talent in the industry.

Niall Morris, Head of Department, Process, Energy & Transport Engineering at MTU, said: “We are thankful for Keyloop to support our students with the bursary and automotive technology. Every year we are left astounded by the level of professionalism and quality that is demonstrated by the students who are put forward. This year was particularly difficult to determine who would be awarded the bursary, but we believe that Saoirse is a very worthy winner. We are excited to see what Saoirse can do as she progresses her career in the automotive industry.”

Since launching the partnership, Keyloop and MTU have created 20 simulated automotive retail outlet centres using the Keyloop Drive Dealer Management System. The centres emulate the departments found in any modern automotive retail outlet including vehicle sales, customer service, marketing, parts and workshop.

These simulated outlets have given MTU students first-hand experiences of the technology systems used by dealers across Ireland and globally, enabling real-time, real-world experiences in areas previously only delivered using theory practices.

Speaking about the partnership between Keyloop and the University, Michelle Wells, Brand Strategy and Corporate Communications Director at Keyloop said: “We are always aiming to collaborate with universities as we endeavour to educate and inspire young people to forge a career in the automotive industry. MTU is well known for consistently delivering students who are not only passionate but hugely ambitious.”