From Classroom to Boardroom: Inspiring Journeys in Adult Education
We launched our new podcast series, The Learning Lounge, in the heart of Kinsale. In the inaugural episode, we were privileged to chat with Lisa O’Connell, CEO of Forus Training. As an entrepreneur and trailblazer in adult education, Lisa shared her inspiring journey from teaching primary school to building one of Ireland’s premier training providers.
A Leap of Faith
Lisa’s career began in a traditional classroom setting, teaching young children. However, her passion for adult education led her to take a bold step into the unknown. At just 23 years old, Lisa left her secure role as a primary school teacher to start Forus Training. With minimal resources but boundless determination, she opened her first premises and began offering IT courses—at a time when the internet was still a novelty for many.
“I wanted to help people learn skills that would open doors for them,” Lisa shared. “It was incredibly motivating to see how something as simple as mastering a spreadsheet could transform someone’s confidence and opportunities.”
Expanding Horizons: From IT to QQI Certification
Over the years, Forus Training has grown exponentially, now offering over 156 QQI-accredited courses. From healthcare to project management, these programmes equip students with qualifications that hold real-world value, enabling them to upskill, change careers, or re-enter the workforce.
Lisa’s passion extends beyond professional growth. Her personal journey as a mother of a child with autism has profoundly influenced the courses offered by Forus Training, including the highly regarded Special Needs Assistant (SNA) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) programmes.
Navigating Autism: Personal Insights into Professional Impact
During the podcast, Lisa spoke candidly about the challenges and rewards of raising a child with autism. She also described how understanding her son’s unique needs has reshaped her approach to education and parenting.
“When my son was diagnosed, I had to learn to manage our environment, focus on sensory needs, and advocate for him at school,” Lisa recounted. “It’s been a journey of discovery—not just for me as a parent, but also for Forus Training as we develop programmes to support families like ours.”
Lisa’s experience underscores the importance of creating positive, structured environments that empower individuals with autism to thrive. This ethos is embedded in the SNA and ABA courses offered by Forus Training. As a matter of fact, these courses provide practical strategies for teachers, parents, and caregivers to support children with additional needs.
Building a Legacy of Learning
At the heart of Lisa’s story is a deep commitment to lifelong learning. Forus Training does more than operate as a business; it creates a community that empowers individuals through education. The courses not only teach skills but also inspire confidence and foster resilience.
“All behaviour is communication,” Lisa reminded us during the podcast. “Our job is to listen, understand, and support—whether that’s in a classroom, a workplace, or at home.”
Join the Conversation
The Learning Lounge podcast is a space to explore the transformative power of education. From upskilling opportunities to personal growth stories, each episode delves into topics that matter to students, professionals, and educators alike.
As we wrapped up our conversation, Lisa left us with a powerful message: “Happiness and success aren’t tied to circumstances; they’re shaped by how we approach life’s challenges. At Forus Training, we’re here to help you take the next step on your journey.”
We invite you to tune into The Learning Lounge and discover how education can open doors, change lives, and build brighter futures. For more information about our courses, visit Forus Training’s website or contact us directly. Let’s learn, grow, and thrive together.
