DTS Software Engineering Intern Review

I worked on 4 Data Science projects throughout my 13 month placement, each a few months long in size. During each of these projects I'd use tools such as Databricks (essentially an online IDE), Python and for some - Generate AI APIs. I'd have weekly stakeholder meetings to share my updates, as well as regular calls with my team. These were mostly remote though, although there is the option to come into the office to socialise with other interns.

I was given lots of responsibility - and had the chance to take ownership of the projects I was working on. At the same time, this was done without lots of pressure - my team still acknowledged I was developing, and were flexible with deadlines and always happy to help. You also get the opportunity to get involved in activities outside your role - such as organising work events, charity challenges, and hackathons.

I've been able to develop a large number of skills.
Presenting - we are required to give a mid-placement and end-of-placement presentation of what we've been working on and our development. There's also many opportunities to present in your role if you want to.
Data Science - I was a complete beginner when I joined but Centrica but my team provided extensive training and I was able to contribute meaningfully
Other skills include stakeholder management, programming, networking, confidence, prioritisation.

I received lots of guidance. My Data Science team especially allowed me to focus on my development initially, reading textbooks and asking questions whilst I practiced on British Gas' real world data sets. This allowed for efficient, but stress free learning. The support continued throughout the placement similarly, people always happy to have a chat. The Emerging Talent team also guided me in my business development - and had valuable feedback on how I was progressing.

The company culture is very accepting, having very important Diversity and Inclusion goals. Care is one of Centrica's key values, as well as Energising a Greener, Fairer Future. I was unsure before joining how climate change would be perceived internally - but from everyone I've spoken to, people really do care about making a difference.

I've really enjoyed my placement. There was a number of other Year in Industries and we formed a nice social element to the placement, coming into the office to chat and catch up. I found the work I'm doing meaningful and actually contributing to improving our customer service - which was important to me.

Yes