Jack McEniff

Class of 2026-2027

Trinity College Dublin (Master's and Bachelor's)
Mechanical Engineering

Capstone Project Abstract

NewMatter is a renewable structural composite developed at Notre Dame's IDEA Center, made from processed agricultural fibres, such as straw, and a proprietary natural resin, designed to replace engineered lumber products. Current engineered lumbers rely on petroleum-derived, formaldehyde-emitting resins that harms indoor air quality and contribute to deforestation, while demand for green-certified alternatives continues to grow. This capstone aims to assess the commercial potential of NewMatter with a focus on validating the strongest beachhead market through stakeholder interviews across potential adopters in building materials, furniture, cabinetry, and vehicle interiors, while identifying what buyers would need to see in performance, price and certification before switching to NewMatter. The capstone will also provide NewMatter with a financial model and recommend the optimal commercialisation pathway to help bring it to market efficiently.

Why did you choose ESTEEM?

I wanted to build on my engineering background with the business and entrepreneurial skills needed to take ideas from a concept to product in the market. After finishing my degree in mechanical and manufacturing engineering at Trinity College Dublin, I realised that the technical side of developing a product is only half the picture, with an understanding of markets, customers and commercialisation strategy playing a key role in getting products into people's hands. The programme's mission of fixing things that matter also highly aligned with career interests wherein I could work in industries that benefit the World.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM I would like to build a career in sports technology. I have always found the science behind protective equipment, injury prevention, and performance analysis fascinating. After previously researching head injuries in rugby and NFL scenarios as part of my degree in Trinity College Dublin, it became evident to me that I would find a career in the development of next-gen protective equipment or sports analytics highly exciting.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love spending time with family and friends whatever way I can, whether it be through a regular catch-up or playing social sports like tennis, padel or golf. After playing rugby throughout school and college, I began coaching youth rugby in Dublin, which was a great way to stay involved in the sport outside of playing.