Design & Validation Engineer Review

As part of the team I work within (Air Handling), I am involved in various projects that relate to how air is used in the engine (eg. heat shields, intake, exhaust etc), as well as other projects from different parts of the engine. My main project, concerning heat shields for a 50L engine, has included the development of the shields from their previous design iteration, to better meet their thermal and assembly requirements. My tasks included CAD-based design work, liaising with the shield supplier, discussing and validating suggested solutions, preparing for and leading meetings with various stakeholders, overseeing/assisting with production line engine builds, presenting design reviews and assisting the product release process.

In terms of engineering skills, I have applied a range of principles in order to contribute to projects and develop sensible designs. To complement these, I have developed CAD and Excel skills to assist with design, product management and demonstration of my work. In addition, soft skills such as team-working, leadership, communication and problem-solving have all been used and greatly improved during my time. By being tested in an initially new and unfamiliar role, I have been forced to develop a range of skills from both university and life in general, including the ability to adapt effectively and quickly to new and changing situations.

From the very start of my placement, I have been treated as a full-time employee, rather than a placement student. I have been given huge amounts of trust to work on real-world projects that have a genuine impact on the company and its success. Whilst having the tools and assistance to help whenever necessary, I have been able to mould my work to suit me. This trust and freedom has allowed me to develop my own methods of doing things, further allowing me to learn and develop as an engineer.

Despite having a number of different managers, I have had fantastic support from those managers, my team and anyone else in the company that I have worked with/for. My needs are catered for very well, everyone is both very accommodating and friendly, and help is always available should I need it. Not only this, but my team has been very thoughtful as to how my skills and experience can be widened - for example, whenever they have been completing relevant work, they have involved me so that I can broaden my knowledge.

Working at Cummins is a very pleasant environment to be in, due to the all-round friendliness and helpfulness from everyone around you. By working with colleagues and stakeholders in the UK and around the world, you gain a great sense of inclusivity and a diverse culture, where everyone is different yet equally driven. Despite the relaxed feel of day-to-day work, the work ethic is very good and everyone has the collective aim of allowing the company to succeed.

Overall, I have massively enjoyed my time at Cummins and am very glad to have been able to spend a year working at a company of this magnitude. From a development perspective, I have greatly improved myself as an engineer, as well as my team-working, leadership and communication skills. From day one, I have been involved in some large and important projects and, by being given such responsibility to go and perform, I have been able to gain confidence in my own ability and be able to demonstrate that in my work. Going forwards, I would definitely return as a graduate as I still feel like I have only just scratched the surface of what is possible to achieve at Cummins.

Yes

Applying to both the recruitment process and the placement itself, my advice would be to be confident in your ability, passionate about your work and future career, and, although cliché, absolutely be yourself. Everyone at Cummins is different and has their own quirks and interests - the best thing you can do is embrace your own passions and let them drive you to success. Cummins is a fantastic place to learn and develop, so, if you do end up working for Cummins, make sure you take as many chances as you can to learn and expand your horizons - you will regret it if you don't!