Industrial Placement Student (Rail) Review

Daily tasks include engaging in system safety activities. This would include write up of reports, suggest new requirements and mapping for hazards, and attend meetings with internal and external. Different kinds of reports get produced on a daily basis that include workshops, meeting minutes, and system definitions. These reports usually involves content from discussions that took place from internal and external meetings. Involvement in DOORS software is done as well, where a database of requirements are stored and managed with different requirements and hazards.

Throughout my placement year, I have learned and developed various skills. I have been able to develop an understanding of how different systems integrate and work with each other. I have also gained an understanding of what sorts of safety measures are considered to mitigate a potential hazard by measures and requirements. Spending my time in a corperate environment also improved my soft skills by attending meetings and communicating with internal and external clients on a daily basis.

Responsibility was given during my placement year. I have been given reponsibility to perform various tasks such as organising meetings with clients, complete writing up reports, and as well as review safety documents and provide feedback to the clients. I have also been been given the responsibility of suggesting hazard mapping into DOORS software, which would be then checked by senior engineers for feedback and approval. Keeping track of changes and informing team members of workflow status were among my daily responsiblities throughout my placment.

I have been given support and guidance from members of my team to learn how to perform different tasks. My team members have always been available to answer any questions that I have regarding a workflow and were always supportive. However, there might be some instances where processes are not always linear, which sometimes takes more time to understand the bigger picture of the workflow when not given prior guidance. As a result, it is important to take initiative and reach out to fill any knowledge gap necessary to complete a workflow task.

The company culture and general atmosphere was welcoming and friendly. I have felt comfortable working with my team members and was happy to work in a positive environment at Mott MacDonald.

I have enjoyed my placement year at Mott MacDonald. I am grateful for the opportunity to have spent my placement experience here with insights on the projects they deliver and being part of it as well. The company culture is welcoming and friendly and was happy to be part of such teams.

Yes

My advice would be to be resourceful and have the ability to adapt to different situations. I would advise by honing data and mathematical skills and as well as prepare for the interview with technical questions that may arise.