Mechanical Engineering Industrial Placement Review

No two days were the same. I worked in mechanical design (AutoCAD), R and D, and research for marketing purposes. Each project brought its own challenges which helped me to develop and gain a lot of skills that I had not been able to use as much while at university. Working from home also meant I had to be more proactive in sourcing help from experienced engineers in my team. A very enjoyable experience.

AutoCAD, R&D, equipment calibration, self-management (emphasised by working from home), communication, teamwork, presenting, project management

Yes. Any task that I was given was part of an ongoing project. I was fortunate to be able to see the end product from some of my work while at the company, e.g. designing parts on AutoCAD and then seeing them after they had been manufactured! When given a new task, my managers always explained to me how my work will fit into the bigger picture of the project.

Due to working from home, I believe this was different to what it may have otherwise been. It was my responsibility to source help from other engineers as most people were working remotely. When I did raise this, the help/guidance I received was excellent. I was able to talk through my problem with an experienced engineer and was guided towards a potential solution.

My experience of it is very positive. I was welcomed to the team and made to feel like a valued member of, not only the team, but the company as a whole too. One thing in particular that I really appreciated and valued was the work they did to promote International Women in Engineering Day. I am grateful to have been able to be a part of helping to organise this.

Coming into the company in the middle of the pandemic, I was very anxious as I didn't know what to expect. Now, at the end of my placement, I can confidently say that the placement/company exceeded any expectations that I had. The variety of work/people I was able to work with was something which I really enjoyed, and I hope to return the company at some point in the future.

Yes

Don't hesitate to apply! There are opportunities to move between different projects if you inform your manager what you would like to work on. When applying, understand the company values and explain what you could bring to the company, as well as how the company can help you in terms of achieving your career goals.