R&D Engineering Placement Student Review

Overall, I enjoyed my work placement a lot. I was given lots of opportunities and worked on a variety of projects. Every day came with its own challenge and there was always a lot to learn. The placement scheme at Caterpillar enables two 6 month placements in different departments, so it was great to be exposed to more than one aspect of engineering.

The environment at Caterpillar is very friendly, and everyone was approachable and helpful. One of the best things about my placement is that my colleagues treated me like I was part of the team, and I was constantly involved in supporting my colleagues tackle real world engineering problems. With the right approach, I felt that I can build trust with my colleagues quickly which opens lots opportunities whether that be getting to know a colleague on a personal level or being entrusted with greater responsibilities.

I was always given great support and guidance throughout my placement. My managers have been very kind and flexible, and have always made time for me. management have also assigned me a mentor who I can turn to for guidance. Despite their busy schedules, supervisors always made time to assist me in my work.

This would depend on the placement role. My first role in validation testing required lots of experience so I was generally given simpler tasks at the beginning of this rotation, which I would sometimes find dull. As I gained competence, I was given more and more responsibilities and I quickly started to enjoy my workload. My second rotation was in Thermofluids and I was given a good workload at a nice pace. I could always ask for more work if I felt bored and I could always ask for support if I felt too busy.

Generally, at the beginning of each rotation I was not given much responsibility (understandably). As I gained familiarity and experience, I was given more responsibility and I was more engaged in projects. By the end of each rotation, I felt I was given the same level of work as a graduate.

The skills I have developed are multidisciplinary, and I feel I can definitely apply the knowledge and training I received to university and to other jobs. To understand my work I would often have to research into the engineering theory behind the technologies I was seeing at work. I have also had the opportunity to use various engineering software from data analysis tools to CFD tools, which may give me a head start in my university studies, and a competitive position as a graduate.

The atmosphere in my office was relatively relaxed with a good environment to focus on work. The engineers in my office were not too formal, yet remained professional. Everyone was open and friendly, there was always banter in the office, and there was a constant supply of sweets and cakes !

The placement was very well organised, and it was clear that the company is experienced in taking up and training placement students.

In terms of personal training Caterpillar encouraged my development in many ways. I received health and safety training and an informative introductory training session. There were a few courses available to help develop the placement students. For example, I was given an engine appreciation course, were I dissembled an engine and studied its components.

Completing a placement is almost like completing a very long interview, the company gets to see how competent you are and you have 12 months to prove yourself. Getting a job offer from the organisation is likely, especially if you have proven your value. I also got to meet team leads and supervisors that had initially joined as graduates, so development within the company is also appealing.

Yes, many placement students chose to rent a house together, and would regularly meet up with each other to do activities outside of work

The company is located in Peterborough, and the cost of living depends on where you choose to live in Peterborough. Generally, the cost of living is quite low, there are cheap supermarkets available such as Lidl and Aldi for cheap groceries. Rent also depends on location but can range £270-£550 per person. I was also told Peterborough has one of the cheapest taxi fares in the UK.

I don't drink so night life was not for me. having said that, there are other alternative activities available.

Yes, in terms of company related activities there were lots of volunteering opportunities to spread awareness about engineering, such as doing activities in primary schools. There were quite a few non-company related activities outside of work, including sightseeing (Peterborough landmarks and heritage sights), visiting the parks, shopping at the city centre, munching a curry at one of the authentic restaurants in Lincoln Road, cinema, cycling, gyming, swimming.