Power Academy Intern Review

I worked as a Power Academy intern within Network Services at the Tipton depot. My placement involved rotating across Planning and Connections, Wayleaves, Primary Substations, Plant Maintenance, Overhead Lines, local operational teams and Faults. On a day-to-day basis, I shadowed colleagues in the office and on site, observed planned work and fault repairs, learned about safety procedures and network equipment, and gained experience using systems such as CROWN, ConnectLV and EMU. I also completed an individual customer survey data-analysis task. Overall, the role gave me a broad understanding of how different teams work together to operate, maintain and develop the electricity distribution network.

Yes, although I was mainly observing and learning, I was still given important responsibilities. While on site, I was responsible for wearing the correct PPE, following all safety instructions, remaining within designated areas and behaving carefully around live equipment and ongoing work. I was also trusted to complete an independent customer survey analysis. As this work could be used to understand and assess team performance, I had to handle the data carefully, check my calculations and produce accurate, high-quality results.

Yes, I developed both technical and professional skills. I gained a stronger understanding of electricity distribution networks, planning and fault-finding processes, network equipment and safe working practices. I also developed experience using CROWN, ConnectLV and EMU, as well as improving my Excel and data-analysis skills through the customer survey project. Professionally, I improved my communication, teamwork, confidence and ability to ask relevant questions. Working with different teams also helped me become more adaptable and comfortable in a professional engineering environment.

I received a very high level of support and guidance throughout my placement. Everyone I worked with at Tipton were welcoming, approachable and always willing to answer my questions. Before and during site visits, colleagues clearly explained the work, equipment and safety procedures, which allowed me to learn while remaining safe. I was encouraged to ask questions, explore different areas of the business and take on suitable tasks. Simon also gave me valuable guidance and advice about my future career, which I really appreciated.

The company culture was very welcoming, friendly and supportive. Everyone at Tipton made an effort to include me, explain their work and help me feel comfortable asking questions. There was a strong sense of teamwork, with different teams supporting one another when additional people or resources were needed. The atmosphere was professional but also relaxed and enjoyable. Safety, customer service and completing work to a high standard were clearly taken seriously. I felt valued as an intern and genuinely enjoyed being part of the team.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement and found it both interesting and rewarding. The variety of the rotation meant that I was constantly learning and had the opportunity to experience both office-based and practical site work. I particularly enjoyed seeing equipment and engineering principles that I had previously only studied at university being applied in real situations. The people at Tipton made the experience even better, as everyone was welcoming and willing to share their knowledge. Overall, the placement increased my interest in the energy industry and made me very keen to return to National Grid in the future.
I made the most of the opportunities available to me and regularly asked colleagues whether there were any tasks I could help with. However, I would have liked to contribute through more practical or independent work. I understand that, as an intern without the required training, qualifications, authorisations or system access, there were necessary limits on what I could safely complete. Within those limitations, I remained proactive, offered help whenever possible and completed all the work that was available to me.

Yes