Industrial Placement Student

What is your current field of study and why did you choose it?

I’m currently studying Civil Engineering at the University of Bath, I chose this field because it combines my interest in physics and mathematics with a desire to solve real world problems. Large scale infrastructure, bridges, dams, skyscrapers have always fascinated me especially in the complexity behind their designs and the factors that influence every design decision, so I naturally gravitated towards civil engineering. What drew me the most into civil engineering is its tangible impact on the communities around us through improving infrastructure and sustainable development, shaping the built environment that affect people’s lives.

Where are you currently doing your placement and what is your role?

During my placement I have had the chance to work on a diverse range of projects, most recently, I have just finished my involvement on a thermal analysis project for a propane tank, where Mott Macdonald was tasked with designing a new heating system below the propane tank to ensure that the sand does not freeze and cause heaving. My role involved using finite element analysis to explore design options and contributing to the final report.

What are your main responsibilities and tasks in this role?

My main responsibilities included creating an FEA axisymmetric model using various technical drawings and geological data that the client has provided, where I defined the tank geometry, generated the mesh, and assigned material properties based on the client provided data. I then analysed how several various heating wire configurations would heat the ground to determine the most effective design. Using these results, I helped draft a report that will be presented to the client in the near future.

What skills have you developed or improved during your placement?

During my placement I was able to develop various different technical and professional skills, I gained hands on experience with Finite element analysis using LUSAS, where I learned how to build and interpret results from models. I have had the opportunity to work on various reports, developing my technical reporting skills. I have been able to improve my technical knowledge and how it should be applied in a real-life setting, especially regarding failure mechanisms on bridges and how to maintain them as I have been involved in several bridge related asset management projects. Additionally, working on larger, multidisciplinary projects helped me build confidence in communication, collaboration, and presenting technical findings clearly.

What are your career goals after completing your studies?

After completing University, ideally I would like to return to Mott Macdonald if given the chance and develop my career there, where I would gain develop myself professionally towards a chartership in the ICE.

How do you think this placement will help you achieve your career goals?

I believe this placement will help me achieve my career goals as it provided me with a strong foundation for my future career. It’s helped me build both technical and soft skills that will be valuable as I work towards chartership, moreover it gave me insight into how the industry operate and helped me decide which direction I want to take my career in, and what specific aspect of engineering I enjoy the most.

What have you enjoyed the most about your placement experience?

I enjoyed most being able to work on various vastly different projects, each one offered a new challenge and helped me explore different areas of civil engineering. I especially enjoyed working in a collaborative environment where I had the chance to work closely with multidisciplinary teams and learn from senior engineers who supported and encouraged me which felt especially rewarding and motivating.

What advice would you give to future placement students?

Make the most of every opportunity - ask questions, get involved, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Everyone is approachable and willing to help, so take advantage of the knowledge around you. It’s a great chance to learn, grow, and figure out what you enjoy most.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience or future plans?

One of the most valuable parts of my placement was speaking with engineers at different stages of their careers. It gave me a clearer picture of the various paths available and the skills needed to progress, that insight helped me decide to switch from a bachelor’s to an integrated master’s degree to better support my goal of becoming chartered.