Volunteer

Description

We are actively seeking engineering students who would be interested in helping to build a submarine feature for a sensory garden, bringing both technical expertise and innovative thinking to the project. The design has already been created and there are blueprints created for dimensions already.  Whether your strengths lie in mechanical design, structural engineering, electronics, or even sustainable materials, this is a chance to collaborate on something hands-on and deeply rewarding. Beyond the technical challenge, this project offers the unique satisfaction of seeing your work directly benefit others—creating joy, curiosity, and engagement for individuals with Down syndrome. If you’re looking to build your portfolio, gain practical experience, and be part of a project that blends engineering with social impact, we would love to hear from you.

Tasks that the volunteer(s) will be expected to undertake:

Engineering students would take on a range of practical and creative tasks throughout the project. In the early stages, this would include helping to plan how the structure can be safely and effectively integrated into the sensory garden. They may also be involved in selecting suitable materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and sensory-friendly, as well as considering accessibility features so the submarine can be enjoyed by individuals with different needs. There is also scope for incorporating simple mechanical or interactive elements—such as movable parts, tactile panels, or sound features—allowing students to apply both technical knowledge and creative problem-solving.

As the project progresses, volunteers would move into more hands-on roles, including assisting with fabrication, assembly, and installation of the submarine structure on-site. This could involve basic construction tasks, working with tools, and collaborating as part of a team to bring the design to life. Students may also help test and refine the feature to ensure it is safe, robust, and engaging for users. Beyond the build itself, there may be opportunities to document the process for portfolios, contribute to project planning, or even engage with the community to understand how the design can best meet users’ needs. Overall, the experience is designed to be both technically valuable and personally rewarding, giving students a chance to see a project through from concept to completion.

Benefits of Volunteering:

Volunteering on this project offers engineering students a rare opportunity to apply their skills in a real, tangible way outside of the classroom. You’ll gain hands-on experience in design, problem-solving, and construction—whether that’s developing concepts, working with materials, or contributing to the build itself. It’s also a strong addition to your CV or portfolio, as it demonstrates initiative, teamwork, and the ability to deliver a project from idea to completion. For students interested in areas like mechanical design, structural integrity, sustainability, or user-focused design, this project allows you to explore those interests in a creative and meaningful context.

Beyond the technical benefits, this project provides a powerful sense of purpose and impact. You’ll be contributing to a sensory garden that is specifically designed to support and engage individuals with Down syndrome, meaning your work will directly enhance people’s daily experiences. It’s also a chance to develop soft skills that are highly valued in engineering careers—such as communication, collaboration, and empathy-driven design. Working alongside other students and community members creates a rewarding team environment, and seeing the finished submarine feature being enjoyed by users is something that stays with you long after the project is complete.

Details of time commitment needed for role:
Commitment needed will be dependant on volunteers availability

Minimum time commitment per week:
Flexible/Varies

Additional screening required for this role::
Consultation will be required.

Sustainable Development Goal:

Hei:
UNIVERSITY OF LIMERICK