Bridges and Civil Structures Industrial Trainee Review

Industrial Trainee in the Bridges and civil Structures team. working on rail and highways bridge projects from optioneering to detail design. working alongside senior engineers to deliver reports and drawings. Carrying out design tasks using structural analysis software and calculations. Interacting with clients, contractors, architects and other disciplines at Arup to collaborate in producing a final design.

Improved my use of excel to produce calculations. Formatting these to industry standard so to be understood by other engineers. Developed my understanding of Eurocodes and have become far more efficient and accurate in using them for design. Learnt structural analysis software from training videos and applying in project work. Improved written and oral communication skills through presenting, attending meetings, writing reports and professional emails.

As I have progressed through my placement I have been given more responsibilities. i am now trusted to liaise directly with clients, contractors and other disciplines. I have been allowed to take responsibility for certain aspects of design, making design decisions and acting on my own initiative. Much of the work I have produced has been used in final issues.

I have been fully supported throughout my placement. My team are really helpful and friendly, everyone is willing to stop and help or explain something when difficult. Arup have a great system of online training and skills networks where you can often find answers to questions you are help. I know who I can speak to should I have any issues whether personal or professional and everyone is very supportive.

The people in Arup are approachable and willing to share their knowledge and expertise. the office has a buzz about it and everyone works collaboratively whether that be in person or online. There is also a lot of collaboration with other offices and teams. The social team put on a lot of events of different natures you can get involved in as well as regular sports clubs.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my placement. At an stage where I have felt overwhelmed or confused the team have been incredibly helpful and reassuring. I have learnt a lot technically, things that I think will help me continuing with my university studies. My personal confidence has grown and I feel I am better equipped to interact in a professional environment.

Yes

Show a genuine interest in the company and awareness of their ethos and wider work beyond the team you are applying for. Be confident to ask for help at the beginning, people forget how much you don't know when you first start and are always willing to help. don't be afraid to ask when unsure or if you feel the work you are doing is the wrong level for you.