Mechanical Engineering Intern Review

Every morning started with a teams meeting with my line manager. Then there was usually at least one other 'summer placement' teams call, this could be a presentation on company projects to mental health or personal development sessions. The rest of the time was spent researching for the final report, discussions with other group members or arranging calls with internal and external stakeholders.

I have learned a lot about working in a professional environment, especially on teams. I am confident with using outlook to request meetings and when talking to my superiors. The project is a group task and so my professional team working skills have improved. Particularly I have learned a lot more about the energy industry and the difference between university and industry level projects (latter needs less perfection).

I was encouraged to join calls including the announcement of interim financial results. There was a call arranged with the MD of British Gas who talked us through Centrica's strategy. Furthermore there was lots of opportunities to contact graduate engineers, including having a specific mentor with whom I arranged bi-weekly calls. There were also numerous talks on Centrica as a company and the experiences of current grads.

Very welcoming, everyone I spoke to from other graduate engineers, other graduate streams and management actively encouraged me to arrange meetings with them to discuss questions. The values of the company were made apparent from the start and everyone seemed to work to them.

I enjoyed the virtual experience a lot, I feel I got a great taster of what working as a graduate engineer felt like. The company also arranged two expensed trips to see the gas terminal in easington and the gas recip plant in brigg. From this I could meet the other interns and grads in person and gain vital information and connections to help with project work.

Yes

In the application process take time to learn the values and think of specific examples of experience you have in which you demonstrate them. When you join the company be active in engaging with all levels of company everyone is friendly and happy to answer your questions. Consider that this internship will revolve around the energy industry so ensure you have an interest there.