Conor O'Brien

Class of 2025-2026

University College Dublin, 2022
Economics

Capstone Project Abstract:

Glen Dimplex has been a global leader in manufacturing and product solutions for over fifty years, driven by a vision to lead the transition to a sustainable world. Building on its deep expertise in the heating and ventilation sector, the company has invested in an innovative wireless energy management platform. This smart technology addresses the significant operational costs and energy waste that occurs in large-scale facilities when heating and cooling systems are left running in unoccupied rooms.

This capstone project will focus on creating a commercialization plan for this intelligent control technology and developing its go-to-market strategy for entry into the North American market. The student will be responsible for providing critical insights on product-market fit, a detailed customer segmentation analysis to guide the sales process, and a competitive market analysis of current and potential industry players. 

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

My passion for entrepreneurship began early, growing up in a family business. After college, I knew I wanted to work with entrepreneurs, and this led me to a job with Enterprise Ireland, the Trade & Investment arm of the Irish Government on the West Coast of the US. Based out of Seattle, my primary mission was to support U.S. market entry for Ireland’s most promising startups. The grit and determination I observed in these founders, who were taking on massive risks to solve real problems, was profoundly inspiring and solidified my ambition to transition from supporting innovators to becoming one. I chose ESTEEM because its mission to "Fix things that matter" and curriculum provide the exact strategic framework I need to build the technical and business acumen required to launch my own venture.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM, I plan to help scale a high-growth startup, ideally in product management or a Chief of Staff capacity, while sharpening the skills I’ll need to launch my own venture in the near future.

What do you like to do in your free time?

When I’m off the clock, you’ll usually find me with a book in hand, I average about 50 a year. A few all-time favorites are The Count of Monte Cristo, Kitchen Confidential, and Shoe Dog. Otherwise, I’m outdoors whenever I can be: on the water in the summer and in the mountains during winter.