About my Role

I have been working at Croudace as an Assistant Engineering since graduating in 2018. As an Assistant Engineer I work under the supervision of the Project Engineers on the team. Each project (development) requires detailed Engineering designs to be produced as part of a package of information issued to the build department. I am, therefore, readily involved in technical aspects such as, detailed Foundation, Drainage, Road and Levels design. These designs are carried out using some existing knowledge from my studies and greatly bolstered by on the job training and a process of continued learning/professional development. Relevant software packages such as AutoCad, PDS (Highway modelling) and Flow (Drainage modelling) are staple tools in carrying out my designs.

Throughout the build stage I am also a point of contact for dealing with site queries; visiting the sites regularly and when specifically called out.

Furthermore, I am involved in a host of other tasks such as requesting relevant quotes from consultants, carrying out cost evaluations of my design and producing information for approval from Adopting authorities, Local authorities, and Building Regulations among others.

The role is very diverse and continues to develop me into a very well rounded Engineer and Professional.

My Highlights

Among the many of my highlights here at Croudace Homes, one of my top two has to be returning as a Graduate to familiar faces after a year spent as an Undergraduate Engineer (2015-16). The welcoming and supportive environment made me feel like had never left.

The other key highlight is undergoing my ICE Technician Review and becoming a recognised Engineering Technician after a year working as a Graduate.

Challenges

Adjusting to the demand of the role was a challenge for me. Compared to my year as an Undergraduate Engineer I had a lot more responsibilities. Although, I welcome it and received adequate support, it required me to be proactive in understanding what was required of me, which allowed me to ask the right questions and receive targeted support.

Lessons Learnt

To progress as a professional you can never stop learning nor should you want to. I learnt very quickly that mistakes can and most certainly will be made. If, however, you dwell on your mistakes rather than seek to learn from them, you not only let yourself down but also your team that relies on you.

Advice

Irrespective of where you find yourself at Croudace or your level of experience, Croudace supports its employees just like it continues to support me in both setting professional targets and creates a healthy environment that gives you an opportunity to achieve them.

As a graduate you should, therefore, have an open mind, a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and a drive to succeeded (relative to your own goals).