Electrical Graduate Design Engineer

Why did you choose Galliford Try?

I chose Galliford Try as I wanted to work for a company that prides itself on upholding its principles, especially regarding its employees and local communities. It's good working for a company that aims to ensure its employees go home to their families safe at the end of the day, and that safe practices are not only advised but encouraged.

What do you like best about your job?

My favourite part of my job is working alongside a team of likeminded professionals and being part of the various projects that we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Due to the variety of projects, no two days are the same which provides opportunities for me to learn and continuously improve my skills as an engineer. I also feel a great deal of satisfaction when a project is completed, knowing that it will aid the local community.

How have Galliford Try invested in you as a person?

Galliford Try has invested in me by allowing me to take part in the Graduate Development Programme and complete the professional training required for me to carry out my role to the best of my ability. These training courses have also enabled me to improve both my soft and technical skills, as well as improving on the skills I developed at university.

What advice would you have for someone just starting out?

My advice would be to stay curious and don't be afraid to ask questions. Your seniors won’t expect you to know everything so don't worry if you can't answer a question. It's a lesson that took me a while to learn and admittedly I can still struggle with it.

How does the graduate scheme work?

The graduate scheme is made up of seven modules. Most of the modules are geared towards improving soft skills including presentation skills, leadership and collaborative teamwork. As the modules progress, you feel yourself becoming increasingly confident.

The modules are delivered in a way that allows you to ‘learn while doing’, rather than simply sitting in a classroom. After each module you are given feedback by the facilitators on what you did well and where you can improve. This plays a valuable part in your personal development.

How is the work/life balance?

The work/life balance for employees is good. If we have a personal issue or an appointment outside of work we're able to deal with it or attend the appointment without problems.

Also, when I started we were encouraged to keep work at work. Therefore, if anything happens on a job outside of our regular working hours, unless it's an emergency, we're not expected to look at or respond to it until we are back at work.