‎Local company SendMode is currently employing 3 LYIT computing graduates at their office in Letterkenny, Austin Quinn, Michael Tourish and Myles Connor. They talk about why they feel that they’re getting excellent experience and career development right here in Donegal.

SendMode are experts on mobile technology and marketing and have grown hugely, both in Ireland and Europe. They currently employ 10 people, 3 of whom are graduates of LYIT. Most of their clients are overseas and the company is now set to expand into South Africa.

“It’s a mindset,” explains Myles, “I think you’re almost brainwashed into thinking well, there isn’t going to be any jobs here.  I was really surprised when I heard about the job at SendMode.  There’s a great atmosphere you don’t mind coming into work in the morning.  We’re always busy.”

Myles is a mature student who returned to study Computer Security and Forensics, after 14 years working.  “With a family here,” he says, “I didn’t really have a choice; I had to find a position in the NW.  However, I didn’t expect to get such a great opportunity in a go-ahead company.  I look after most of the sales in South Africa.”

“The course at LYIT was challenging but also rewarding.  The lecturers are very supportive and encourage you all the way.  That makes a huge difference.”

Austin studied Applied Computing and is the longest with SendMode.  He says, “When you’re working for a smaller company that is growing, you get experience across the board.  The experience I have gained here is far superior to others that I’ve spoken to.  I feel very lucky to have got the job here.  Because there are always new technologies and trends, you’re refreshing your skills continually.”

“I enjoyed studying at LYIT, I always had an interest in computing and I’ve used what I’ve learned at SendMode.”  The standard of the course is as good if not better than others I’ve spoken to.  LYIT is well connected to industry which means the courses include many practical aspects.”

Michael Tourish is the newest recruit. “I’ve been doing a lot of work for android apps which is brilliant.  I didn’t expect to be doing this kind of work straight away.  I’m learning that there’s a big difference learning coding and doing it every day,” he laughs.  Michael graduated in Computer Games Development this year.

“I like learning new things and even though I’ve only been at SendMode 3 months I’m constantly learning something new and I’ve found that what I’ve studied has stood to me.  It’s a great place to work.”

John McNamara, CEO of SendMode, explains, “Our aim is to provide the most effective marketing tools for our customers and we are constantly innovating and adding new technology.  So we have to ensure our team are familiar with new trends.”

He continues, “We’re open to giving people a chance and allowing them to grow on the job.  Of course there’s help if you need it too.”

He describes where the company began, “SendMode started off as a low cost text message provider, now we’re in 10 countries, servicing all our clients from Donegal. Our customers drive innovation in our business, we have the technical skills, while our customers know the messages they wish to get out there. We provide the most efficient ways of doing this.”

“Our newest product will combine all mobile and social marketing into one package which is easy, measurable and accountable. It will take the time, effort and complexity out of staying on top of so many channels.”

Speaking about technology jobs in Donegal he says, “My attitude is there’s an enormous amount of talent in NW, the opportunities to go with that talent may be limited.  However we’re delighted to able to assist graduates understand our business.  We like to see how they are as engineers and people.  So far we’ve employed quite a few.”

What advice would the LYIT graduates give to people looking to work in technology?  “There are opportunities in Donegal, sometimes you have to be a bit flexible.  Keep your options open.  It can be hard, but be patient.  Send in a CV to SendMode!”