Construction inspection specialist Fenagh brings advanced test skills to global markets
Fenagh Engineering & Testing aims to introduce a new level of expertise to the Irish construction sector while fostering a two-way exchange of knowledge and innovation between the US and Ireland.
In December 2024, Fenagh Engineering & Testing, a leading US-based construction inspection and materials testing firm, announced its expansion into Europe with the opening of its first international office in Dublin, Ireland.
This move, backed by a €3 million investment over the next three years, not only marks a milestone for the company but also reflects the growing interconnectivity of global construction markets.
Founded by Irish-American entrepreneur Patrick Greenan, Fenagh is steeped in Irish heritage.
“Patrick’s roots trace back to Fenagh in Leitrim, which is where the company name comes from,” says Darren Bergin, managing director of Fenagh Engineering & Testing in Ireland. “His Irish heritage and connections have always been a part of Fenagh’s identity, and this expansion feels like bringing things full circle.”
With plans to create 35 new jobs in Ireland across specialist inspection, materials testing, and building certification, Fenagh aims to introduce a new level of expertise to the Irish construction sector while fostering a two-way exchange of knowledge and innovation between the US and Ireland.
Fenagh specialises in third-party inspection, materials testing, and compliance services, working across commercial construction, residential housing, and infrastructure projects. From high-risk work packages like concrete and steel inspection to fire safety evaluations, Fenagh brings a level of precision and accountability that’s become its hallmark in the US.
“In the US, inspectors are highly specialised,” says Bergin. “They’re trained and certified to focus on specific areas, like concrete or steel, which makes them absolute experts in their fields. Our goal is to replicate that tradition of expertise in Ireland.”
Fenagh’s role isn’t to construct buildings but to ensure they meet the highest standards.
Fenagh’s decision to establish its European headquarters in Dublin was influenced by several factors. As the only native English-speaking country in the European Union, Ireland offers a favourable business environment, a skilled workforce, and access to cutting-edge research institutions like Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin).
“Dublin is the bridge to Europe. “We’ve got a mature regulatory landscape here, thanks to the Building Control Amendment Regulations introduced a decade ago. It’s a great place for us to bring our expertise and integrate into an industry that’s ready for a higher level of third-party oversight.”
Fenagh is also deeply committed to fostering local talent. “We’re focused on recruiting graduates and junior staff in Ireland,” Bergin says. “We want to create a pipeline where Irish professionals can train in the US and bring that experience back home. It’s about organic growth and knowledge transfer.”
A defining aspect of Fenagh’s expansion is the two-way flow of expertise between its US and Irish operations. In Ireland, Fenagh is introducing specialized inspection practices honed over 30 years in the US, while also leveraging Ireland’s innovation ecosystem to drive research and development.
“Our inspectors in the US are exposed to a scale of projects that’s hard to match elsewhere. By training Irish professionals in the US, we can fast-track their expertise. At the same time, we’re bringing back fresh ideas from Ireland to enhance our services globally.”
One example of this synergy is Fenagh’s partnership with TU Dublin’s Built Environment Research and Innovation Centre (BERIC). Together, they’re working on an AI Construction Research Program that uses technologies like computer vision and machine learning to streamline inspection processes.
“It’s a proof-of-concept project right now. But the potential is huge. By automating parts of the inspection process, we can improve accuracy, reduce human error, and save time. Being involved in this kind of R&D is a unique opportunity for a company launching in a new market.”
Sustainability is a growing priority for the construction industry, and Fenagh is committed to contributing through rigorous materials testing and sustainable building practices.
“Our role is to promote the use of sustainable building products,” says Bergin. “Sometimes, there’s hesitation around newer materials because they’re not as tried and tested. That’s where we come in — to provide the validation needed to move the industry forward responsibly.”
Fenagh’s collaboration with research institutions also aligns with its sustainability goals. Through partnerships with initiatives like Construct Innovate, the company aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies that support greener construction methods.
While Ireland is the starting point, Fenagh has its sights set on broader European expansion. The company plans to enter markets like the UK, Germany, Spain, and Italy, building on its experience working in international locations.
“Even before opening in Dublin, we’ve had inspectors working in places like China, Thailand, and Italy for US-based clients,” he says. “Our goal is to create an agile workforce that can operate globally, maintaining the same high standards no matter where the project is.”
Behind Fenagh’s technical expertise is a strong emphasis on people. Whether it’s clients, employees, or research collaborators, building trust and relationships is central to the company’s philosophy.
“We’re looking for candidates with not just technical skills but also emotional intelligence,” Bergin says. “Construction is a team effort, and every project is unique. The ability to build relationships and navigate complex challenges is just as important as technical expertise.”
This focus on people extends to Fenagh’s educational initiatives. The company is actively recruiting Irish graduates and integrating them into its training programs.
“We have a process where J1 students can train in the US and then return to Ireland with that experience. It’s about creating opportunities for growth and building a strong foundation for the future.”
As Fenagh Engineering & Testing begins its European journey, the company’s mission remains clear: to set new benchmarks for quality, compliance, and innovation in construction. By combining US expertise with Irish ingenuity, Fenagh’s ambition is to make a lasting impact on the construction industry.
“Our decision to launch in Dublin reflects our confidence in Ireland’s dynamic construction sector,” Bergin says. “We’re here to create jobs, support housing and infrastructure goals, and bring cutting-edge solutions to the market. This is just the beginning of what we hope will be a long and successful partnership between Fenagh and Ireland.”
With its roots firmly planted in two nations, Fenagh Engineering & Testing is hoping to successfully operate between the US and Europe, using Ireland as the key stepping stone.
