Designing the Future: Canice Coogan’s Journey from Telecoms to Power

Canice Coogan brings a calm, steady presence to the team. With years of experience delivering complex engineering projects in telecoms he’s recently turned his focus to power and utilities where he brings his vast technical expertise with a collaborative mindset to consistently deliver safe, high-quality outcomes for the client.

“Moving from telecoms to power was a big but natural step,” he explains. “Both industries are about connection — one connects people, the other connects energy. The principles of design, safety, and delivery are the same.”

As Design Manager for KTL’s Power Division (Overhead Line & Embedded Generation), Canice now leads teams shaping the infrastructure that supports Ireland’s transition to renewable, reliable energy.

Having spent over a decade delivering complex telecoms projects with KTL and other partners, Canice developed a reputation for clear-headed problem-solving and precision under pressure.

Many of the same skills apply he notes, “project management, problem-solving and troubleshooting on site, planning, managing land access, and engaging with landowners and other stakeholders.” “The main challenges,” he commented, “were learning new terminology, new technologies, and building fresh industry contacts. Value engineering also works differently in the power division — the focus is on network reliability and safety rather than RF signal or coverage performance. Still, my background in fast-paced telecom projects has helped me bring a practical, solutions-driven approach to power design and delivery.”

Today, Canice’s fingerprints can already be seen across projects supporting Ireland’s energy transition. “It’s rewarding to know the work we’re doing now directly supports Net Zero 2050,” he reflects. “Telecoms connected people. Power connects everything.”

For Canice, the move from Telecoms to Power reflects KTL’s own growth — expanding expertise to meet Ireland’s growing infrastructure needs.

When asked what advice he’d share with someone starting in the field, Canice doesn’t hesitate. “Safety first, always. Learn the standards, ask questions early, and don’t rely only on drawings — walk the site. Reality always beats theory.”

He carries with him the best career advice he’s ever received: “Take risks and challenge yourself by doing uncomfortable things.” For Canice, growth has always come from stepping outside his comfort zone.

For Canice, KTL stands apart because of its culture. “It’s practical, delivery-focused engineering with short lines to decision-makers,” he explains. “We collaborate tightly with clients, and we move fast without ever compromising on safety or quality.”

When asked to describe KTL in a few words, he doesn’t hesitate: “Safe. Dependable. Fair. Hard working."

To find out more about KTL careers, visit ktl.ie today.