Global Engine Development Placement Student Review

The placement wasn't directly relevant to my degree as my involvement with technical matters and the application of theoretical knowledge was limited, although my exposure to a managerial decision making and project leadership was significant and greatly developed my skills in this area.

In an old and well established department I initially felt isolated from many of my colleagues, which was perhaps exaggerated by my involvement in some relatively controversial projects. I will certainly miss working with a select few of my department colleagues, that said, the graduates, apprentices and myself have got along really well.

Much of the time a great deal of guidance and advice was available, which decreased as I became more confident and experienced, yet was always available when needed.

Initially I worked at a high rate on short projects to gain exposure to the business, and overtime settled into a rhythm. For the most part it was well balanced, but in between projects could be a little tedious, but provided opportunities to work on other things such as CAT Learning Modules or accreditation.

Significant responsibility for department level projects and decisions from the outset, which enabled me to develop leadership and communication skills.

Prior to starting with Caterpillar I was aware that my leadership and project management skills were a less developed than other skills due insufficient exposure, however now these are definitely one of my strengths

Very busy, the office was often full of vistiors, contractors and other colleagues and could be loud and distracting. Although it could often be interesting, and people were always up for a discussion.

Initial communications and awaiting replies was rather poor and upon starting my placement much of the necessary IT setup was not completed which left me without a computer for the first couple of weeks. Often having to chase things up myself. There is definately improvement needed.

There was reasonable opportunities for development, particularly through Six Sigma, IMechE MPDS, although a greater involvement with the sister facility at Peterborough would have provided much greater opportunities for development.

Unlikely, as although they have assisted my development in key areas, this year has helped me to understand the type of working environment I prefer and can see myself in upon graduating. The location was also not suited to myself.

It wasn't that great, only 3 placement positions were available at the site, all of which were in different departments. The 3 of us were very different people and often chose to do our own thing in the evenings and on weekends, but we would socialise at work quite happily.

Quite varied, much of the accomodation varied significantly in both quailty and cost, although there was great transport links, and plently of supermarkets and a few very nice restaurants and a particulary nice bar.

It wasn't for me.

Lot to do outside of work, both with colleagues or through clubs. Outdoor sports were really popular around Stafford and with direct access to the M6 it made getting places very easy.