Engineering Placement

How did you find the assessment process?

The assessment centre was very organised and structured. It was a long day but I didn’t find it stressful and I wasn’t rushing around – in fact I enjoyed it.

What was your greatest challenge?

The electrical engineering project was outside of the knowledge base I’d built up at university so was all very new to me but I learnt so much because of this.

What main highlights were there for you on the programme?

I work across the gas and electricity side so I have a good insight into both. I’m involved in project management on the electricity side and it’s very technical so just what I was looking for. On the gas side I am managing a team which I wasn’t expecting to do but it’s really good to get this type of experience. The high level of exposure to very technical projects as well as the Maths and Physics elements have all been highlights for me.

What have you learnt on the programme?

I found out more about myself and my key strengths and weaknesses so I can work on these. I think the technical knowledge that I’ve gained is far greater than I would have got from university alone.

What was the biggest surprise?

The level of responsibility – I wasn’t expecting to get this as an Industrial Placement student but I’m pleased that I did.

How supported were you by National Grid?

I was very supported and I felt National Grid went out of their way to help ensure that my placement year was successful and that I would be happy.

How useful do you think it will be to you when looking for a job?

The experience is invaluable – 12 months of exposure that others won’t have will help me to stand out to employers. Also, on an engineering course the management aspect can be underrated so having this will also be an extra skill for me to build upon.