Mechanical Engineering Intern Review

Introductions to various teams within the energy department at WSP, mainly involving talks and sitting in on both team and client meetings. Some work on actual projects, for example doing CAD drawings, writing up reports, engaging in project review workshops. Occasional training courses, for example health and safety in design, client engagement. Shadowing my supervisor to understand the role.

Some responsibility was given when working on projects, as these needed to be up to a certain quality and completed by a deadline. I was also trusted to take notes in client meetings which were then used to develop comment and feedback documents. My supervisor was good at giving me tasks with a level of responsibility, however other members of staff were reluctant to give me responsibility due to tight deadlines and client requirements.

I have learnt how to use AutoCAD (I have only used SolidWorks previously at university)
Become much more proficient using excel, for calculations, note taking and formal reports
Improved my professional communication skills, both written and in-person, including writing reports and attending client meetings.

My supervisor was my main point of contact and supported me throughout. Most people in the team were very busy whilst I was there so I wasn't fully supported the whole time, however there was usually someone available who I could ask questions to whilst I was there. There was no formal mentoring/training scheme set up so it was on me to proactively seek guidance when I needed it.

All my colleagues were very friendly and welcoming, the general atmosphere was relaxed, and the company seems to really value individual wellbeing.

I have really enjoyed it so far. There have been a few occasions where I felt a bit out of place/unsure of what to do, however for the most part I have been kept busy and had a really good insight into what life is like working in engineering.

Yes