Software Engineering Intern Review

What I normally do in my role is specifically use simulation software that replicates an army mission without the risks and costs that a normal army mission would normally cost. Its far more accessible this way and it is very similar to the real thing. I also create and use software that acts as an after action review where they can replay their battle scenario and see their stats. Some of my other colleagues use VR, AR and other forms of virtual reality software that can all be used to re-enact a real army scenario.

Yes definitely I learnt about Java, C++, Splunk, VBS, Simulations software in general, Networking and JavaScript. Some of these skills were solidified during my placement year and other ones that are new to me like C++ have now given me a good foundation of how to use it. Overall throughout this year I was able to really stretch my knowledge on the basic programming principles and learned to be more adaptive to whatever new language is required of each task.

Yes. There were many instances where the work I was doing was taken for exhibitions and demos to possible customers who would be interested in our company and sector. For example, when some of my colleagues had to go to Orlando my job was to ensure that every single entity within the simulation was mapped across to the right vehicle. Even though it was a small task it was one of my first big tasks that I had to do. A recent task I was given is also being presented to customers as it will be used as an after-action review system of the army scenario given a replay of the scenario and giving statistical data to review the positives and the negatives of the army soldiers and vehicles.

I received a lot of guidance from other colleagues that had already been in the office long-term. They had done the tasks previously and they were more than willing to give me some pointers on how to do some tasks. Also, Human resources was able to provide the support I needed when I was in a rough spot financially. There are a lot of work packages that really benefit the employees that really make it easier on the employees.

The general atmosphere was very friendly and familial. I was able to make some friends with some of my colleagues which really boosted morale, considering that most of my time was spent at work it was really encouraging that all the other colleagues weren't just robots just doing work day in day out. They were pretty open to discussion even if it wasn't fully work related. We even had the opportunity to speak with the CEO of LMUK amongst other Chief Engineers, and it didn't feel intimidating despite their seniority in the company.

Overall the placement felt a lot less intimidating than I had previously anticipated. I thought I would feel a lot more isolated during this year but I have gotten on well with my work colleagues and managers. Its given me a good perspective on this sector which is super helpful. Plus all of the social events that they had held was a great introduction to the company; at the beginning of the placement me and another intern in the same sector was able to go to the Farnborough Air Show exhibiting the things Lockheed Martin do as well as meeting other Interns the same day.

Yes

Make sure that you know about Project Planning. Be able to adapt to different programming languages and know the programming principles to make it possible to jump from programming languages to other programming languages depending on the task given to you. Also, research the areas that Lockheed Martin operate in. Having a unique skill set that you are solid on, for example, having knowledge of VR and AR technologies will take you really far in the Westbury sight.