Technical Annual Placement Review

Took part in production trials of new material, collecting samples, testing and analysing the results of said trial. Assisted and investigated packaging steel that was out of specification in terms of its mechanical properties. Overall this involved looking at the history of the coil, and the parameters they were produced under, assessing whether this might have caused the issue, presenting these findings. Evaluating the relationships between the production line variables and final properties. Tensile testing and computer work, looking at data.

Experimental skills: Noting and categorising test pieces, recording any problems that arose here and the process taken. General lab diary notes. Data Analysis: Visualising the relationships between variables, and finding the possible causes and correlations within (using some coding and excel/Spotfire work) Communication: Presenting these findings in reports, trying to convey my points along with the evidence behind them. This also extends to speaking to colleagues in a relaxed manner as well.

I was given a large amount of freedom to approach problems how I saw them, trying to use my experiences at university to solve problems. Using the help from colleagues to guide me along the way. Although there were no hard deadlines for me, most were quite soft with priority given to work that someone else might require. This was usually the results of a trial. Being placed with another worker during the trials to watch over me initially, but after working for a few months I was given the responsibility of testing as an individual.

Quite a bit from those I worked with. I shadowed one for the start of the year, but how much guidance I received was generally down to how many questions I asked and to how many people I spoke to. Not being afraid to ask for feedback or where I should go next with my work if I were stuck.

Family culture for the site (Trostre). My department was quite close with frequent visits to the site canteen as a group, I felt I was able to ask work related questions without being judged. People were happy to help out if you asked them.

I enjoyed it very much, I was given the freedom to operate and pursue my tasks, given guidance where I asked for it, which allowed me to explore and learn about the business and the skills that would assist me. I was also able to take part in current projects playing a part in the progress of the business from a research and development point of view. Along with a fairly relaxed group of people to work with.

Yes

Keep an eye on the news when applying to any Tata Steel UK sites, due to the recent business changes, everything seems a bit rocky at the time of writing (Aug 2024). Ask questions, as many as you can, take as many notes as you can, if you are seen putting in the effort and initiative, those around you will definitely appreciate you being there. It makes things like interacting with people around you a lot easier, find those important problems to solve and work towards it.