THE University of Limerick (UL) has honoured Michael Guinee, a former CEO of Ei Electronics, with an honorary Doctorate of Engineering.
He was awarded the honour in recognition of his legacy as an engineer, employer, entrepreneur, innovator, and philanthropist in the Mid West region.
Under his leadership of over 35 years, Ei Electronics has become one of Ireland’s largest and most successful indigenous manufacturing and exporting companies with a turnover of €425million in 2024.
One of the largest employers in the Mid West, Ei has built a reputation for delivering market-leading innovations on a world stage.
It is estimated that, since its inception, over 17,000 people have worked at the Shannon-based organisation.
Mr Guinee has also made significant contributions to education, sports, arts and culture, health and welfare, and communities across the region.
He set up the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation to support his philanthropic pursuits into the future, the Ei Women in Engineering Scholarship at UL in 2019, and Ei’s graduate programme that supports UL’s cooperative education programme, as well as the recruitment of many UL engineering and science graduates annually.
Speaking at the ceremony in Plassey House, UL’s acting President Professor Shane Kilcommins said: “Michael Guinee’s work in engineering, sustainability, business, and community development has been recognised on multiple occasions by both Ennis and Limerick chambers of commerce and, today, it is fitting that University of Limerick recognises and honours his immense legacy.”
“Michael’s extraordinary commitment to maintaining manufacturing in Shannon, his tenacious support of his dedicated staff and his ability to innovate at scale are just some of the many reasons we celebrate him.
“This honorary conferring is a recognition of the transformative role that industry leaders like Michael play in shaping Ireland’s future, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to honour those who lead with purpose and principle,” Professor Kilcommins added.
Mr Guinee is originally from Mallow, County Cork, and moved to Shannon in 1981. He was appointed managing director of GE subsidiary Ei Company in 1983.
