Environmental & Energy Engineering Annual Placement Review

My role was to provide technical support to Tata Steel businesses regarding process optimisation and environmental compliance. Further into the placement, as I was involved in more projects, my roles and responsibilites increased. Common actions involved updating team members and administrative trackers regarding project progress. I would also regularly collaborate with operations personnel to investigate and assess processes with the aim of determining environmental compliance and/or operational effectiveness/efficiency.

I have developed my interpersonal and organisational skills significantly due to the range of processes and associated personnel you work with across Tata Steel. It also demands some initiative and good IT skills which I have developed further in the last year with increasing responsibility and as a result I am more confident in my work ability. I also had the opportunity to develop my report writing and presentational skills when assessing and reporting back to work areas on project progress and findings.

As I gathered experience within the business and developed knowledge of its operational processes I became more confident in my work ability. This was received well by my team who assisted in my development with training courses and personal guidance. As a result I took on more responsibility which involved leading team meetings, presenting project findings to operational personnel, developing scope of work documentation to submit work tenders, and eventually leading my own investigative project.

There were regular team meetings as well as 1-to-1 meetings with my line manager to support formal/informal concerns. My colleagues were also very friendly and provided great personal and professional advice which made my placement experience very enjoyable. Many training courses and support services were also made available which provided valuable guidance as well as knowledge on the business and its operations.

Was very welcoming. Everyone I interacted with (in person, over phone, team calls, email, etc) was friendly and happy to help with any queries I had. The communications network and work intranet also allowed you to access anyone and review the business organisation structure. There were also many community projects such as beach cleans, charity fund raisers and exercise challenges which I could get involved in.

Very much. Was a nice refresher from university which has provided me with valuable knowledge, experience and connections with some great people. I feel motivated with a clear view on my career opportunities. The work was challenging and in a different discipline to most of my academic studies which also provided alternative insights into engineering, management and business strategy. The only issues I had stemmed from covid restrictions which hampered my ability to meet and interact with colleagues as well as having a social experience in South Wales.

Yes

For applications in general, always research the company to determine its values, operations, location, and what is expected from you. It is a significant commitment so make sure its an appropriate role for your interests, aspirations, work style, etc. This will also provide guidance for your application documentation and potential interview as employers want you to demonstrate an interest in their organisation. With Tata, there are various opportunities across multiple sites (Hartlepool, Shotton, Port Talbot, and more) so take your time when researching roles and locations as its an international business which requires many disciplines to function.