Declan Gilhooly has always been interested in cars, recalling how he assisted his father with repairs on the family car when he was young. His enrolment to Cavan Institute on the Motor Vehicle Maintenance course seemed a natural progession for Declan.

Initially in 2009 Declan completed his Leaving Certificate in Drumshambo Vocational School. He then went on to IT Sligo where he completed a year on an engineering course.

After completing a year in IT Sligo, Declan secured a position as a Sales Assistant with a high street sports chain. He was quickly promoted to Sales Supervisor however he always longed to become a qualified mechanic.

After hearing a radio advertisement promoting Cavan Institute, Declan attended the open day and quickly signed up for the Motor Vehicle Maintenance QQI Level 5 course. As part of the Motor Vehicle Maintenance course, Declan secured his work experience with Cavan Motors.