Sourcing and Supply Chain Intern Review

Doing a placement year is the best thing I have ever done. Learning about the real world of work and putting into practice my skills I had developed from uni and part time work was so satisfying. Especially when I knew they were making a real difference to the business. I enjoyed going into work each day, the routine and working alongside a team everyday to get results.

I was given so much responsibility by my manager, colleagues and senior management. I knew the work I was doing was really making a difference and was actually needed on a day to day basis to be execute as a business. From the feedback, and the relationships I built based on my credibility of work, I know I was really valued as a member of staff. Nobody saw me as ‘just an intern’

I was given a lot of guidance and support by my manager, mentor and colleagues. Everyone at GE wanted to help me, provide me with a strong foundation of knowledge at the start of my placement, as well as being willing to help throughout my whole year. I knew I could go to anyone, beyond my own team and they would help.

I had a perfect balance of being able to go out on the shop floor, running data metrics as well as run meetings on a daily basis. This combination of daily activities meant I was always busy. The responsibility I gained whilst on placement, due to being recognised for my work meant I was this busy. GE really recognise talent.

I was offered to fulfil an entry level role at GE, after being at the company for 5 months. I was given huge responsibility for the site I was working at, and many people and departments and the business were then depending on me and my work. This responsibility and empowerment made my internship. It meant I learnt so much, and knew every day at work I was adding value.

In terms of being back at university- the skills I developed on placement like time management and prioritisation of tasks etc has really benefited me. It’s meant I can continue to work part time at GE and complete my final year at uni. I know these skills will also benefit me for life now, in any busy manaufacturing job I undertake. The skills I developed - technically, personably, and in myself have meant I’ve been able to secure at grad scheme at GE. So I know they have set me up for life if I continues to develop and utilise them.

The atmosphere in my office was perfect. Everyone was busy getting on with their own work, but I was always able to reach out to others and they would help. There was also a good balance of jokes occasionally as everyone got on so well. The team work really showed within the atmosphere of my office, everyone got on so well. I enjoyed being there.

To start with I had my set intern tasks and responsibilities as well as time to shadow others. It was very well organised and I knew what I’d be going everyday for 70% of the day. This all changed when I was offered the new role, but even then I knew exactly what the role was that I was doing and structured my week accordingly (with the help of my manager).

The personal development on my placement was huge. I developed in all areas and competencies. I didnt have much formal training, however everyone wanted to help me develop as a young professional. Being offered the entry level role meant I could develop above and beyond what I ever thought I would.

After applying for GE OMLP grad scheme, I have just been offered to start the scheme in July 2019. I now know that I want to stay with GE Aviation for life. The company’s culture, output and people- ensure me that this is a company I want to stay with for life. I want to be a future leader of GE.

Due to there being so many interns at GE, I was able to socialise weekly with the interns. As well as other colleagues that I got on well with. Parties and social events were provided by the company occasionally, but generally whilst on placement at GE- I had the perfect balance of work and socialising.

I was living in Cheltenham so it is a little more expensive than other areas. However, the intern salary provided by GE is very good and enabled me to have a very good year down there. I want to move back to Cheltenham one day, due to its social side as well as jobs.

Night life was fantastic for me. Restaurants and bars in Cheltenham are amazing, and there are so many. In terms of clubbing, the area has a few small clubs but this didn’t bother me or the other interns. We had fantastic nights out in Cheltenham. There is always something different to do in Cheltenham area.

I personally go involved in a mud run, a ladies cocktail making night, Cheltenham science festival and a bowling night. The employee engagement team and women’s network are always putting on vents for GE employees. If you want to participate you can, but you do not have to- I did a few select events.