Engineering Placement Student Review

I am in the design team and my manager has assigned a project to me where I am optimizing the design of an engine part currently in production. I work closely and often communicate with the applied mechanics team to complete my own Finite Element Analysis to structurally verify my designs. I also frequently consult with the senior engineers in the design team as well as my own manager for any CAD or manufacturing concerns.

I already have experience with CAD and FEA software from past projects in university, however, I have had the opportunity to complete a multitude of training courses on these software which has developed my competency with not only the software but it has also developed my intuition as a designer. I have also had the chance to manage my own project in an industry-setting which will benefit me for any projects in and out of university.

The project I have been working on is self-led and self-paced, this work may not actually be reviewed and implemented in the company's current products so in that sense there is less pressure as I am not responsible for any critical work. However, being in charge of my own project personally puts me in a position of great responsibility and not having any time-pressure to deliver this project has allowed for me to make mistakes and learn along the way. Overall, it is a good learning experience.

There is a lot of support available as long as you ask for it. I have found that speaking to people who have years of experience working in the industry is more helpful than trying to find your own support material which is in abundance and may be outdated. People can explain in a way you can understand and often know where to point you to find helpful resources. However, as people are busy and have their own work to do, you have to be proactive and reach out to people on your own.

I believe the company really cares about the personal development of its employees. There is a wide range training available to employees to enrich their skillset which may help them move to a different role. The company also offers the chance for their employees to become accredited in a range of different qualifications. The company also has a dedicated team supporting employees to create individual development plans and setting career goals but also supporting them to achieve these goals.

I found my placement very enjoyable. I found the work I completed to be fulfilling for my own future career aspirations. I like the fact that I was given the opportunity to challenge myself by being responsible for a project which I had no prior experience of doing in an industry setting, I believe I have learnt the most from this experience and this experience widened my skillset the most. I also enjoyed how sociable and friendly my team was.

Yes

Be curious and willing to learn. I believe you get out what you put into it, so be proactive and seek your own opportunities, they are available but won't always be advertised to you. Before you start your placement, you should have an idea of what you want to achieve during your time here and you should speak with your manager about your own goals, they are very accommodating and have a range of resources for you to take advantage of.