Current Product Engineering Placement Student Review

This role involves leading and supporting projects to drive improvements to current product in production. The day to day involves communicating with engineering specialists, who can advise on issues, and with key stakeholders to give updates to discuss how the project is progressing. It requires the use of engineering judgement to make key decisions and a good eye for detail so all work is at the highest standard. You also regularly identify and remove project roadblocks so timelines can be met.

The role gives plenty of opportunities to develop and learn skills due to the varied nature of its work. It allows for work in many areas of engineering and networking opportunities with a lot of teams. Cummins also pushes for self development giving resources and events to develop knowledge and key skills. Due to it being such a large company, teamwork and communication skills are constantly being developed.

I was surprised at how much responsibility I was given from the very start of placement. I was allowed to lead projects and choose the direction from the start. I started with smaller projects but quickly progressed to large and company impacting projects. Along with this increased responsibility I had enough support so never felt uncomfortable in my position. The trust my team have for me was displayed by the responsibility of the projects I have been given including leading a small team through one of my projects.

There is always an abundance of support when required which helps settling in at the start of the placement. This support includes technical support from experts as well as project management support, personal support and support in self development. The support is also given in a way that makes me think for myself and develop for next time so that I am not just given the answer every time.

The company culture at Cummins is very friendly and supportive. Almost everyone I interact with is happy to help. The rewards and flexible working also makes this environment an enjoyable place to work.

I really enjoyed my placement as the work has been interesting and challenging and my team have been supportive and fun to work with. It also helps that I have been treated with the respect of a normal engineer from the start and been involved in projects that make a difference to the company.

Yes

My advice to someone applying to Cummins would be to not stress as it's a very calm recruitment process. I would also advise that they display their teamwork and communication skills as it is such a big part of working at a large company.