Michael Ahearne Senior is a renowned figure in civil engineering, multidisciplinary project management, and fire safety, with over 50 years of professional experience. A graduate of University College Cork (1973) with a Bachelor’s in Civil Engineering and a Chartered Fire Engineer, Michael began his career with Sisk Contracting before serving as Chief Fire Officer in Carlow and Tipperary South for 16 years. During this time, he played a pivotal role in drafting Ireland’s building regulations, setting benchmarks for safety and compliance.
In 2001, Michael founded AFEC International, expanding it into a leading multidisciplinary consultancy delivering architectural, mechanical, electrical, structural, and fire engineering services. Under his leadership, AFEC has undertaken landmark projects across Ireland, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. His work spans a wide range of sectors, including large-scale residential and commercial developments, healthcare and educational facilities, transport infrastructure, and historic building conservation.
Michael’s expertise has been instrumental in delivering complex projects such as cladding remediation post-Grenfell, performance-based design for hospitals, and advanced engineering solutions for airports and transport hubs. He has balanced technical excellence with innovative problem-solving, ensuring successful project outcomes in challenging environments.
As Chairman, Michael continues to guide AFEC’s strategic growth while mentoring the next generation of professionals. His career is defined by a commitment to quality, innovation, and collaboration across the built environment.
