Maritime Engineer Review

I worked alongside the Newcastle Maritime Team taking up several different roles throughout my placement. I managed and checked tender documents prior to sending out for client review, generated a variety of documentation from reports to drawings and worked on-site for a time, supervising Contractor activities throughout some land remediation works. In addition, I have done works surrounding surveying, project management and worked alongside my team lead during discussions on the revision of engineering standards.

As this was my first exposure to the engineering industry, I gained a variety of valuable skills from being able to work in a dynamic environment with plenty of new and interesting projects coming in and being able to learn and adapt to each new set of circumstances. Especially with my time surveying and as a Supervisor, being flexible with work hours and locations as the job requires has been enlightening.

My line manager always ensured I was able to work with a decent level of freedom during most projects. There were a few projects where I was completely left to my own devices and was able to grow a lot as a result. I was managing and distributing workloads as the project progressed with little to no external influence from my line manager. This level of freedom to explore was essential in my professional growth.

I was always welcome to ask any questions regarding gaps in my knowledge. It was a very accommodating work environment, not only could I learn from other teams during the plentiful socials being held, but my team had full library of relevant literature that I could reference to find information. In addition, due to the variety in backgrounds and experiences of the team, I was able to learn an incredible amount during my time with them.

The overall office itself felt very close due to the amazing work that the Sports and Socials team does, ensuring a variety of activities to involve people in the office, ensuring plenty of opportunities to meet others despite not being within the same team. Everyone is very friendly and I tend to be able to start a comfortable conversation with anybody, but that may just be my own attitude towards approaching people.

Overall, it was a very enlightening experience and I had an amazing time meeting such a variety of people from across the world with different backgrounds and experiences. I felt like I really hit the ground running during this time, and having the support and freedom to grow was very valuable in my learning experience with Mott MacDonald.

Yes

I think, as a placement student, you should make full use of any opportunity provided. You should be open to try anything that comes your way and be sure to do your best. My senior told me that we should always be knowledge sponges, seeking out new lessons and experiences at every chance we get.