Industrial placement student Review

Cover a variety of roles: preparing reports, responding to feedback, labelling images for innovation development, bridge assessment, calculations, surveying, designing. Development of models by using range of computer softwares.

Learnt how to use multiple bridge and civil engineering softwares, including: Midas civil, Autodesk Structural bridge design, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, Google Sketchup, Archie-M. Developed existing skills in use of spreadsheets and developed technical and report writing skills. Developed existing civil engineering theory knowledge in real life uses and how to use Eurocodes, DMRB and Active Travel guidelines where applicable and summarise effectively. Learnt how to work in the professional environment .

Given some personal responsibility - led a surveying trip to north yorkshire and had to show a more senior colleague how to use the equipment. Given some responsibility to draft and explore options for bridge forms/strengthening options/choosing calculations, these were supervised and checked thoroughly in order to make sure that the work would meet client expectations and be safe designs.

Very good support and guidance. Given chance to give feedback to line managers, which was acted upon so that had a line manager who I work with often and provides constant support and guidance when required and is very approachable. The team is also very approachable and will offer guidance if needed.

Absolutely fantastic, professional when working but equally welcoming, approachable and fun after work. Regular social events are organised including meals, walks, drinks/networking events, charity pub quizzes. The culture of the company was to encourage us to ask questions and develop skills and also to develop CPD. Recognised that being on placement we are not as experienced so while there are expectations of the level of work, deadlines weren't forced.

I found some work very repetitive and pointless, also found that the work changed so frequently I couldn't get properly involved in the work before moving on, I'm not certain its a long-term career for me. However, I have had a wide range of opportunities to see what civil engineering consultancy entails. I've enjoyed working on site, doing challenging design and software modelling and take pride in the outcomes of some projects.

Yes

Make sure you are interested in doing a desk based job. Get involved with the social aspects of the environment. Ask questions and set clear goals as that will be how you can follow the opportunities you are interested in.