Test Operations Summer Placement Student Review

I really enjoyed my summer placement at Cummins as it gave me an insight into working within an engineering environment. It also allowed me to see various fields of engineering which I had not considered and showed me how some of the work and programmes I had used at University were being used in the work place.

Everyone was very nice at the placement and they all made you feel extremely welcome. They were always willing to answer any questions you had and would take the time to show you how to do various things, even if what they were doing was not completely related to the department you had been put in.

Support was always provided if asked for.

Depending on the tasks that were set some days you could be quite busy. If you asked you could always find something to do. If you didn't have the confidence to ask for more work it could get slightly boring. This could be an opportunity to talk to some of the different engineers around the plant to find out more about their jobs and whether this would interest you.

I was not given a lot of responsibility due to the project and task I was completing but the end result would still be helpful to the company. To be given more responsibility I think it depends which department you're put in. For example, the Test Engineering or Controls team.

I developed my confidence and communication skills throughout the placement. I also developed teamwork skills by working closely with the other summer placement students. I did not receive much engineering related training however, there was useful health and safety and workplace training I had to complete. I did learn different skills by working with various people in different departments such as hands-on skills and also when writing Standard Operating Procedures.

Friendly and an environment where I was comfortable to ask for help if I needed it.

The placement was well organised. The first week was well planned with training in health and safety and general activities.

It depended which department you were in and whether training was specifically needed for the tasks you were set. I did not experience any specific training but was shown how to use different software that the company used.

There is a good graduate placement scheme that I have been able to discuss with current graduates. I would definitely apply here in the future but possibly in a different department to the one I am currently working in.

Yes, there were four summer placement students in total and, although we were all in different departments, we were all around the same area. We were able to work together on different tasks and had time to socialize with each other after work. There were also some year placement students who we sometimes sat with at lunch. All of the placement students were also always included in leaving dos and any sports events.

I commuted from Newcastle everyday which was quite expensive in fuel but was only a small part of my salary. I also lived at home whilst on placement. When going out to eat/drink at night it was quite cheap.

Didn't experience it.

Yes, there were charity football games that were arranged for after work. There were also community involvement days which various departments got involved with.