Turbines Precision Manufacture Summer Intern Review

My two main projects help oversee improvements to the overall yield of the Trent 1000 blades and update the CM matrix for two development stages blades currently being tested for efficient machining. The CM data helps the design and manufacturing teams understand what aspects of the current drawings and machining settings need changing to deliver more reliable results for full -fledged production of these blades in the future.

Understanding engineering drawing files in a lot more detail to what my uni course requires. Communication skills (including presentation skills, written communication etc.) across various departments. My Excel knowledge has increased and I know more of all its limitless functions. Learning new software in Minitab. Understanding machining and measurement processes and casting processes in more detail compared to the theory learned in uni.

Not as much I expected but I became more proactive after settling into the team. My supervisors listened to me though and accommodated early on to increase my workload whenever they could. It felt strange not having as much work compared others who were constantly busy but other interns sorted out events and tours we could get involved in if we had extra time, which helped me explore more of the business.

The team was very welcoming and relaxed so I instantly felt comfortable asking for support when needed. They always made sure check in on me to review how I was getting on with the projects and check my professional development. If I had issues outside of work or personal problems going on, my team were so understanding. I could arrange a morning off or leave a bit early when necessary.

General atmosphere was super relaxed. There is no uniform or strict dress code anywhere in the company and there is always some sort of baked good available to eat! Despite the stressful nature of the work done here, no one is annoyed or agitated if you ask a 'silly' question or if you get stuck on something - everyone really wants to help you develop and learn whenever they can.

I definitely want to come back for a longer placement or on the Grad scheme after university. There's a lot to get involved in professionally and after work and they encourage a healthy work-life balance. My only issue was that most departments have 'virtual days' working from home but the work in my area means you must be here physically everyday despite seeing in some weeks that my workload could be managed from home.

Yes

Be proactive in getting involved with projects and ask about anything! People are so busy they may not notice you are struggling or want to do something but they always welcome an extra pair of hands on a project. Spend time exploring other departments as much as possible to get a better scope for the job done and how the company works as a whole. Network, network, network with any and everybody!