Industrial Placement Student Review

Working within the Architecture team I started off working on small tasks involving various different software programs such as Revit and Navisworks to gain an understanding of the BIM design environment. As I continued through my placement I was given more responsibly and larger tasks which involved working within a multidisciplinary team to find innovative solutions to complex problems. I was also given the opportunity to attend and take part in technical client meetings.

During my placement I new digital skills in design software I hadn't used before such as Revit and AutoCAD, as well as developing existing skills, for example team work and communication when working with large, multidisciplinary teams. My communication skills were also improved through attending and partaking in client facing technical and integration meetings where I presented and discussed work I was carrying out.

As I progressed through my placement I was given an increased level of responsibility which lead to me taking ownership of several package of work which involved multiple disciplines as well as external designers. I was also given responsibility's as part of the architecture team which involved me working within a team to deliver a larger piece of work.

At the beginning of my placement I received lots of online training which gave me a base understanding of how the company works as well as a basic understanding of the software I would be using. Following this, every member of staff has been willing to give me pointers and suggestions during my placement, whether this is via a Teams message or face-to-fact chat. Mott MacDonald also has a great sports and social committee which has allowed me to create connections outside of the office.

The Mott MacDonald office has a great atmosphere with individuals from every level of engineering, fresh apprentices all the way up to technical and project principle. This has meant I've been able to gain a wide understand of the sector and how Mott MacDonald operate as a business.

During the 12 months at Mott MacDonald I have learnt and developed more skill than I could have ever imagined. I have also experienced how challenging the sector is and the demand that engineers have when it comes to large scale infrastructure projects. During my year I have also made some great connections and meet a group of people who I hope I can stay in contact with following the end of my placement.

Yes

Mott MacDonald is a great place to learn new skill as well as developing existing skill you already have. As long as your ready to learn and prepared to work sometimes outside your comfort zone, you will fit right in. Mott MacDonald also has a great network of people, ranging from other placements to principle engineers with 40+ year of industrial experience.