Industrial Placement - Undergraduate Electrical Engineer Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement it was unreal having the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and be able to go on ships as a part of my job. I did not know what to expect as I had never worked for such a large and fast paced organisation.

I felt very valued by my immediate colleagues and also people who I did not spend as much time with. I was made to feel very welcome from the start as part of the Electrical team, and also the whole BAE family. My opinion was sought and always listened to in a positive manner.

Throughout the year I had various 1-2-1 sessions with my Line Manager to discuss my progress, objectives and any issues I may have. These sessions were very useful in addressing any issues or concerns I had. It was also great to receive so much positive feedback. My placement manager was been incredibly supportive throughout the year, sharing their experiences and guidance to make sure I completed all tasks to the best of my ability. The monthly 1-2-1 sessions with him ensured that I was on track and working efficiently. Since we have been in lockdown, he has organised two calls a week to check on the Electrical team's well being and work updates.

I worked on numerous projects with varying time scales. If there were ever any gaps in my day I was given additional reading materials or opportunities to get involved with other projects. I also was able to go on other ships on the base to gain valuable insight into other disciplines.

I felt that I was given a lot of responsibility for certain tasks over the year. For example I had the opportunity to write a Feasibility Study for an important project and then I gave a presentation to the customer to be able to close down that phase of the project. As part of the placement I was encouraged to become a STEM Ambassador, this gave me the chance to talk to talk to students at primary schools, secondary schools, colleges and universities about BAE Systems. As an ambassador was at a local college where myself and two other industrial placement students organised a glider project and also a business orientated question. These were both very interesting and I had lots of fun coaching them.

I have improved many soft skills, such as; presentations, written skills, communication, punctuality and commitment. I feel that when I return to university I will be more focussed and motivated to complete my assignments on time and always to the best of my ability. I am determined to get the highest grade that I can from my degree in order to work for a company like BAE Systems. I now have a greater insight into how competitive the job market is.

There was a good rapport between everybody within the office. There was a lot of humour between the different disciplines within the office and good natured banter. People frequently bought in cakes and treats which helped to boost the morale. It was always enjoyable to go for lunch in the canteen which provided great food.

I think that my placement was very well organised overall. I was given projects that were clearly defined in terms of objectives and time scales. There was also a support system in place in case I needed it from managers and colleagues and also between other industrial placement students. I was always aware of what was expected of me.

For one of my projects I needed to carry out an training to ensure that I was staying safe while working at height. I agreed this with my manager and organised it very easily. I also had to change my security clearance, and again this was very easily organised with my managers. I also completed all the necessary online training, which has given me additional skills to work to the best of my ability. At the start of my placement I was contacted by an existing employee to be my mentor, who I have spoken to throughout my placement.

Partway through my placement I had an end of year review, this was interesting as it allowed me to see what level I was working at and how I could improve. Throughout my placement I have gradually improved and at the end of my placement there will be a final presentation where I have the chance to talk about everything that I have done. This, as well as my work throughout the year will determine if I will be offered a place once I have graduated. I believe that I am currently on track.

Yes there was a good social scene. For my intake there were a total of five industrial placement students who lived close enough for us all to meet up and do different things. We did a few different things, such as; go karting, I organised a Christmas meal and also going for drinks.

I did a placement in the area where I had studied for two years at university, therefore I knew what it would be like. I do not find that it is too expensive in comparison to other places that other students live in. You can pay as much or as little as you like depending on where you decide to live.

As I had already lived in the area for two years I was aware of the different places to go for a good night out or just for a few drinks. It was lots of fun showing people who had not been to the area before what it was like.

There was always something going on, it could be leaving drinks or a birthday celebration. I organised a quiz that myself and the other industrial placement students did for each other. As well as going go karting which was lots of fun and going for food to have chats about work and outside of work topics.