OVER 700 students from 15 post-primary schools across Tipperary gathered in Fethard Town Park last Thursday (April 10th) for the inaugural Coolmore Careers Day – an event which shone a spotlight on the wide range of career opportunities available in the bloodstock, farming, trades, professional services, and tourism and hospitality sectors.

Coolmore Stud, a global leader in thoroughbred breeding, has long been a cornerstone of south Tipperary’s economy. With over 1,300 people employed directly across its operations – which include the world-renowned Ballydoyle racing yard, a significant farming enterprise, and hospitality businesses such as the Cashel Palace Hotel – Coolmore’s contribution to local employment and community life is substantial.

Students attending the event had the chance to engage directly with industry professionals, visit the iconic Coolmore Stud, and see its world-class stallions, broodmares, and foals up close. Live demonstrations from farriers and tradespeople brought hands-on skills into focus, while Coolmore staff from across various departments were on hand to discuss the broad range of roles that keep the business moving.

Representatives from third-level and further education institutions – including the University of Limerick, Kildalton Agricultural College, Gurteen College, and CAFRE in Enniskillen – were also present, providing guidance for those considering future studies in agriculture or related fields.

Coolmore farm manager Tom Lynch said: "Each year Coolmore employs numerous apprentices and graduates who cut their teeth working with some of the best in the industry. We wanted to showcase to these students the array of opportunities they have on their doorstep.

"It’s obviously important for young people to travel and get an education, but we want them to know that there are a wide array of rewarding jobs – some of them very high-powered – if they choose to return to the community they grew up in.

"At Coolmore we are privileged to be part of a bloodstock industry that supports a €2.46 billion economic impact nationally and over 30,000 jobs.

"Tipperary also has a distinction of being one of the counties with the lowest outbound work commutes. That says a lot about sustainable communities and work-life balance.

"As well as the large number of people who work directly with the horses, constant growth means we also require plumbers, electricians, carpenters, et cetera. Office staff include accountants, IT, marketing and health and safety staff.

"Farming and gardening provide a large number of roles including agricultural mechanics while the hospitality end of things also offers a wide range of careers options.

"We’d love to see this event growing from strength to strength, as a showcase for the much broader farming and bloodstock sector.”

The event was originally suggested by Fethard Patrician Presentation Secondary School. The school's principal Billy Walsh said: "Bloodstock, farming and tourism are the lifeblood of Co Tipperary and we are blessed to have Coolmore and Ballydoyle on our doorstep.

"Farming and bloodstock are two of the major employers in this region and they also support tourism, heritage, sustainable communities and our environment.

"This event shows that whether a student is considering a Solas apprenticeship, Agricultural College, or university, there are careers to suit all interests and talents and that’s something to celebrate.”