HWIL Undergraduate Engineer Review

Supporting HWIL simulations, developing software and hardware, testing/proving software and hardware, integrating various software and hardware together all for the overall department/team objective of effective HWIL simulations.

Over the course of this placement, the following has been developed: - test/investigative engineering skills - problem solving methods and execution - interface design skills - software/hardware integration skills - software engineering skills including the development of software, data analysis, and control systems (C++, MATLAB, Linux) - communication protocol understanding (RS422, ethernet, MODBUS, 1553) - electronics design understanding - technical report writing skills

I was immediately given responsibility and naturally owned tasks assigned to me. As an undergraduate engineer, it may not be at the same level as a graduate engineer but it is still a suitable amount to promote development and ensure each day has something to offer. When initiative is taken and the company can see how keen you are, they are happy to give more responsibility provided it will not impede your current workload.

Guidance and support were readily available and the reverse is also true allowing my own mistakes to be made and thus encouraging development and confidence. If ever a question needed asking, there was always someone to ask or guide you to the appropriate person. My department in particular is brilliant at this as everyone has a good understanding of what others excel at.

The atmosphere at MBDA is incredibly relaxed but utterly professional. At no point did I feel out of place or unwelcome. The inclusiveness is something I greatly appreciate especially in association with the way individuals work - flexible hours, work-life balance, multiple working spaces, and mental wellbeing courses and support. Perhaps a negative of this is sometimes it seems to relaxed that others may slow their working pace and the company suffers as a result.

I have greatly enjoyed my time here at MBDA in the HWIL department. The team are an incredible bunch of knowledgeable and passionate people who are more than happy to get stuck in to any interesting technical problems you may have and encourage you to get involved in theirs as well. You feel respected and trusted to carry out the work assigned to you and it is meaningful, benefiting both the department and the company.

Yes

There is a lot of interesting information to absorb, process, and retain. Take any opportunity to ask a question and get involved in what someone else is focussing on as you will most definitely learn something new and it may aid you in your own tasks. Relax and focus on yourself - you are treated as an individual here, not just a statistic.