Industrial Placement Student Review

Generally I am working on structural calculations for various steel and concrete structures using Finite Element Analysis tools, structural calculators, and hand calculations. I also use CAD programmes to create and modify section and elevation drawings. I am also practicing communication skills through the Microsoft Office toolkit, including report writing, presentation creation, and meeting skills via Teams.

I have been given quite a lot of responsibility, which has helped me develop as an engineer and as an adult. The team I work with, along with my line manager, have given me lots of support with this responsibility, which means it has rarely felt overwhelming.

Much of the engineering skills I had begun to develop at university have been used extensively and I find my engineering capabilities and judgement have improved significantly. I am also being taught how to work around Health and Safety planning and project management skills via Excel and similar programmes. My professional communication skills are required every day, in writing reports, preparing presentations, and engaging in both face-to-face and online meetings. This practice has entailed a significant improvement in all of these skills.

My line manager has been extremely supportive, as have the entire team I work with on a day-to-day basis. The opportunity to work with senior engineers and BIM technicians has given me much perspective on the industry as a young engineer, and helped to focus my career goals going forward.
Mott Macdonald also have lots of learning opportunities, such as through online workshops and in-person seminars.

Mott Macdonald have a very open, learning-oriented culture. My team have been excellent in supporting me, and I know if I have a question, no matter how basic, someone is willing to help and teach. I have also been encouraged to help my colleagues, and have had several opportunities to teach myself.

I was encouraged to go for a placement by my parents, who had both undertaken placements as undergraduates. I feel that I have made a great decision by taking a placement, as I have learned so much from opportunities in the industry. Not everything has been necessarily enjoyable, but all of my experiences thus far have been helpful towards my career and my personal growth.

Yes