Mechanical Engineering IP Review

During my placement, I worked primarily within coating operations, with additional involvement in projects across granulation and dispensary areas. My role focused on supporting equipment and process improvements, introducing new equipment into manufacturing areas, and ensuring changes were implemented safely and in line with site procedures.
On a day-to-day basis, this involved coordinating and supporting equipment acceptance testing, reviewing machinery and supplier documentation, carrying out changes and reviews to documentation related to machinery safety, compliance and risk assessments. This gave me the opportunity to identify hazards and define appropriate control measures.

Yes - I was given a good level of responsibility throughout my placement and was trusted to contribute to real operational and engineering projects. As stated previously, I supported the introduction of new equipment, took part in acceptance testing activities, contributed to machinery safety assessments and documentation, and helped implement safety-related changes within OSD manufacturing areas. While working with guidance from experienced colleagues, I was expected to manage my own tasks, coordinate with different stakeholders, and ensure activities were completed in accordance with site procedures and project requirements.

Yes, I developed several new skills during my placement. I improved my ability to work with technical documentation and became more confident in interpreting and applying safety and engineering requirements in a manufacturing environment. I also strengthened my problem-solving skills through involvement in equipment introduction and acceptance testing activities.
In addition, I developed better organisational and communication skills by working with different teams, and by coordinating my tasks.

I received a good level of support and guidance throughout my placement, particularly when working on new technical tasks such as equipment introduction and making edits to safety documentation. At the same time, I was trusted to take responsibility for coordinating things independently, like communicating with contractors and helping organise work. This level of autonomy was really valuable, as it helped me build confidence and improve my communication and organisational skills while still having support available when needed.

The company culture and general atmosphere were very positive and supportive. I felt welcomed as part of the company and was encouraged to get involved beyond my core placement tasks. I also had the opportunity to take part in employee resource groups such as EMBRACE and WLI, which gave me insight into the company’s focus on inclusion, networking, and personal development. I was also able to get involved in organising events, which added to the sense of engagement and teamwork across the organisation. Overall, it was an engaging environment where collaboration and open communication were encouraged.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement. The work was engaging and gave me the opportunity to get involved in projects that I felt were meaningful. I particularly enjoyed working across the different areas, as well as being part of a supportive team environment where I felt I could ask anyone for help and they would share their experience. I could also contribute to wider initiatives such as employee resource groups and event organisation, which provided a great social opportunity and made it exciting to get involved beyond my core role.

Yes