Liberty IT welcomes 28 graduate software engineers to the TechStart programme

Every engineering career starts somewhere, and the first few months often shape much of what follows. That feels especially true now. As AI changes how software is designed, developed and delivered, strong foundations, problem-solving and sound judgement matter more than ever.

Last month, 28 graduates have joined us as Associate Software Engineers across our Belfast, Dublin and Galway locations. They join the 10 graduates who started with us in May, and will work across our business units and engineering groups through our TechStart graduate programme, gaining hands-on experience while developing their technical and professional skills. 

Giving graduates a strong start

TechStart is designed to support graduates as they transition from university into the workplace, and into their first role as an entry-level software engineer. Our programme combines structured learning and development with mentoring and practical experience on real-world technology projects. 

Inside the TechStart programme

Graduates begin with an immersive, in-person training programme of around 12 weeks, delivered in two-week sprints covering engineering foundations, full-stack engineering and enterprise engineering. Alongside the technical training, professional skills workshops focus on communication, team building and critical thinking, helping graduates develop the wider skills every engineering career needs.

Learning alongside experienced engineers

From early on, graduates work on projects targeted for production, following the full development, testing and release lifecycle in an Agile environment. Through our Buddy Scheme, each graduate also has a dedicated mentor in their team, giving them ongoing feedback and coaching as they find their feet.

Clear pathways into Liberty IT

For some of this year’s graduates, joining TechStart means coming back. A number of them completed internships with us before finishing their degrees, and many of our engineers have followed a similar route, from summer scholar placements and a placement year through to a graduate role.

Emma Mullan, our Senior Director of Talent, welcomed this year’s intake:

It’s a path that can lead a long way. Many people who started their careers here have gone on to become specialists and leaders, including engineers who have grown from graduate to Senior Software Engineer.

Why early-career talent matters more as AI reshapes software engineering

As the way software is built continues to change, strong engineering fundamentals, problem-solving, adaptability and sound technical judgement are becoming increasingly valuable.

It’s a view shared by Tony Marron, our Managing Director and Global Engineering Capability Lead:

That’s where TechStart comes in. Through the programme, graduates develop core technical skills while gaining exposure to emerging technologies and real-world business challenges, giving them a solid foundation to continue developing, adapting and building rewarding careers in a profession that continues to evolve at pace.

To all our new graduates: welcome to Liberty IT. We can’t wait to see what you build.