Mechanical Engineering Placement Student Review

I joined Mott Macdonald as a Mechanical engineering student in particular building services. I am part of the HVAC team. On a day to day basis my work ranges from background reading, aiding in report writing whether that be calculation or design documents or creating an IES model to run temperature simulations . My daily activities vary depending on what tasks are assigned to me

Yes , I was given responsibilities during my placement , as I was given tasks assigned to a large project important for the company . I was tasked with completing tasks with varying levels of importance from meeting minutes, excel calculators all the way to simulation models. Despite the amount of work given and the responsibilities the environment in the office means you can ask anyone for help no matter how simple the question may seem .

I have learned and developed a wide range of important skills, including both soft and technical skills.
Some key skills I have developed are as follows:
- Writing reports in the relevant style/format
- Effective communication skills
- Strong teamwork
- Building a base in terms of theoretical knowledge relevant to ventilation systems
- Learning IES to conduct Temperature simulations to help aid design decisions

From the beginning of my placement, I received extensive support and guidance on all aspects of work ranging from document writing to something as simple as checking an email before its sent to finding my self around the office. I am also grateful for my buddy who was useful in teaching me on how to do things and the environment in the office as a whole is very welcoming to questions

The company culture is something is something different to what I expected a cooperate office to be . The culture has a perfect balance between remaining focused and serious with the task at hand whilst creating a fun and friendly atmosphere with plenty of social events to attend and meet other within the business.

I have enjoyed my time at Mott Macdonald, it has benefitted me in many ways than one. It has given me first hand experience on projects which I would never imagine having a part in. Alongside experience and skills learnt I believe it was the best place for me to gain my first bit of experience in the engineering consultancy industry .

Yes