Industrial Placement Student Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cummins Turbo Technologies (CTT). I always looked forward to turning up to work.

I never felt like "just" a placement student. The work I have been given has always been relevant and interesting, allowing me to really contribute to the team.

Support has always been there when needed. No matter who I spoke to I would always be given the time needed to solve my issue, or if they couldn't help they would direct me to someone who they thought could.

The workload is spot on. I have never been short of work to do, yet I have never felt too busy, although if there is too much work all it takes is a conversation with my manager who will help to prioritise what needs doing.

I worked on numerous independent projects where I was encouraged to use my own initiative. One of the most satisfying parts of my placement was receiving prototype parts that I had designed and ordered on my own.

I have more of an engineering mindset will which help with my creativity at uni. One of the key things I have learned is time management and learning how to prioritise tasks.

Very relaxed atmosphere in the office, people were allowed to chat and work in a pleasant environment.

The work placement features a rotation around four different departments. It was all very slick and designed to give students the best experience.

The company is part of the IMechE MPDS scheme, allowing you to develop into a Chartered Engineer. The company also has their own personal development scheme all the staff are involved with.

The placement year is an investment into the student by the company, so they are reluctant to let talent go. If they can take on a student from placement into a graduate role they usually do.

There were around 30 placement students during my time at CTT. These people were all in the same boat as me - working, living in a different town, not knowing many people. Therefore there was a great social scene, with us all wanting to go out at the weekend or do something like the cinema in the week.

As a student I will always complain at the price of things! Huddersfield is relatively cheap to live in as it is a northern town, I have never remarked at how expensive something has been.

Having come from Sheffield, the nightlife in Huddersfield is relatively poor. There are two main clubs and numerous bars and restaurants. There is certainly plenty to do!

There is 6 a side football organised during the week for after work. The company also has a community involvement team which organises various volunteering events.