A Ripple Effect: Return to education creates a wave of opportunities for Fionnuala

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When Fionnuala Bonner made the brave decision in her mid-20s to return to education and sit her Leaving Certificate, she set herself on a path of lifelong learning that would transform her future.

Today, the Convoy native is a valued member of the Uisce Éireann team in Donegal Town, working as a drinking water compliance analyst for the North-West Region — a role she is passionate about. Her work ensures safe, clean drinking water for communities across Donegal, safeguarding public health and supporting environmental sustainability.

For Fionnuala, the motivation in returning to education in her mid-20s was clear: to set an example for her two young children.

“I left school in my teens without my Leaving Cert and it was always something I wanted to achieve. When my children started national school, I decided it was time to go back myself. It was tough, but I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished,” she recalls.

Fionnuala credits her family for their unwavering support during those challenging years.

“I couldn’t have done it without my family rowing in behind me. They knew the importance of it and helped every way they could — whether it was collecting the kids from school or having dinner ready in the evening. It made all the difference.”

Speaking during Science Week (9–16 November), Fionnuala reflects on how embracing science changed her life.

“Going back to education brought me on a journey I could never have imagined. Science Week is a great reminder of the opportunities STEM can offer — right here in Donegal. If you’re thinking about a career in science, I’d absolutely recommend it,” she emphasises.

Her passion for learning began at Letterkenny VEC, where she embraced adult learning in a supportive environment and sat six subjects to achieve her Leaving Certificate. Initially considering nursing, Fionnuala discovered her love for science and enrolled in a Bioscience degree at Letterkenny IT (now ATU). That decision opened doors to an Honours Degree in Bioanalytical Science, followed by a Masters in Environmental Health & Safety at Sligo IT — all while balancing work, family life, and even maternity leave.

“I got the bug for learning,” she says with a smile. “If I enjoy something, I just keep going. When I was doing my Masters, I finished my last exam while expecting my third child! I had to ask for a deferral for my dissertation, but I managed to complete all of the other coursework over the two years while working and then studying in the evenings. I finished the dissertation after my maternity leave ended. It was hectic, but worth every minute.”Fionnuala’s career has been as varied as it has been rewarding. She started with internships analysing water and wastewater samples, then moved on to supervising bathing water quality along Donegal’s stunning beaches as well as carrying out other Environmental Inspections.

“I loved those days — driving around the county’s beautiful beaches and then analysing the samples in the lab and reporting results to the EPA as well as to the local communities.   I also carried out septic tank inspections in various communities in Donegal. It gave me a real appreciation for the environment and the importance of protecting it.”

Her work has taken her from treatment plants and laboratory benches to catchment projects, engaging with landowners and communities to protect water sources. She played a key role in the Source to Tap project as a Catchment Officer, to protect drinking water sources in the Derg catchment safeguarding our raw water supplies. 

Today, Fionnuala plays a vital role in safeguarding drinking water quality across the North-West region, attending HSE and EPA audits at water treatment plants while working closely with colleagues across Uisce Éireann to deliver for customers and communities.

Uisce Éireann plays a critical role in ensuring safe, clean drinking water for homes, schools, and businesses across Ireland. This involves constant monitoring of water quality, maintaining treatment plants, and working with local communities to protect catchment areas. Teams like Fionnuala’s ensure that rigorous sampling and analysis is carried out on our supplies and that any issues are responded to promptly, working together with our Operations Teams and Environmental and Health Agencies to meet strict health and safety standards.

“Every test we do matters because it protects public health. It’s about making sure families, farms, and businesses have water they can trust,” she explains.

Fionnuala is passionate about encouraging others to explore STEM careers: “Without my Leaving Cert, there were very few avenues open to me. Returning to education and pursuing my dreams was the best decision I ever made. STEM isn’t just about working in a lab — it’s about solving real-world problems, protecting communities, and making a difference. Science Week is the perfect time to learn more and take that first step.”

Now living in Killygordon, Fionnuala enjoys the simple pleasures of life in Donegal. Weekends often see her exploring the county’s stunning beaches and tranquil woodlands with her husband and children — places that remind her why protecting the environment and water quality matters so much.

Her journey from leaving school early to earning multiple qualifications and thriving in her role in water services shows what’s possible when determination meets opportunity.

“If you’re thinking about going back to education or exploring STEM, don’t be afraid to take that first step. It might feel daunting, but it could change your life — just like it changed mine.”

Fionnuala’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of education - an inspiration to anyone considering taking a leap of faith.