Material Planner- Supply Chain Review

I have thoroughly enjoyed my placement at Caterpillar and have had the experience of working with a wide range of departments within the facility. I have enjoyed being able to work alongside very experience individuals which has given me the confidence to strive for my future goals. My work placement has given me a lot of experience which will be very valuable when applying for graduate roles.

My team is a fairly small and I feel I have made a connection with each individual and are always there for help when needed. My supervisor values the work and progress made from the start of my industrial placement which is highlighted in 1-1 reviews. Being valued by your work colleagues has given me the motivation to achieve objectives and make the most out of working within Supply Chain.

The support and guidance from management has been excellent throughout my placement. There is regular team meetings to raise any issues or concerns and colleagues are always willing to help where possible. The supply chain team work well together and management are available to speak to with any personal or work related issues.

This can depend on what issues have occurred in the week and can vary, however a standard week is usually quiet steady. If one of the team is on annual leave this can increase work load as it gets distributed between individuals, however management are there for support if you feel you need help.

I feel I got a good amount of responsibility as you are responsible for handing your own suppliers and how well they perform. You are also responsible for any shortages which arise on the build line. Having responsibility gives you the opportunity to work closer with other people at the facility which is good to find out what job roles are around and what they do a regular basis.

The skills you will develop within this role can be applied to group projects at university and gives you a large advantage when going into interviews. Skills such as team work, multi-tasking and organisational skills are a few of many which you will develop within this role. I feel I will perform better in university projects and other projects within a work environment now than I would have if I did not take up this opportunity.

There is always laughter in the office although sometimes you have to appreciate that people are working and can sometimes be quiet. All the people I have had a pleasure to work with are very nice and approachable individuals. The half a day on a Friday is also a bonus

The training was well organised and my supervisor was prepared with work when I started. The paperwork for the contract was sent promptly and there was communication all the way through the process.

Caterpillar is a brilliant place to work for and I will be looking at graduate roles in the future.

There are another 4 placement students at Shrewsbury, 1 of which I work with closely. We meet up regularly for an afternoon drink on a Friday and it is nice to have other placement students working at the facility.

Can not comment as I have not lived in Shrewsbury

I would not be able to comment as I do not live in Shrewsbury but the town does have very nice bars and restaurants to visit