Industrial Placement Student Review

I worked on a variety of tasks to upgrade or maintain mechanical assets at treatment works across the UK: head loss and flow rate calculations, pump sizing and selections, ventilation calculations, pumping station design, etc. Many of the projects require liaising with suppliers and engineers from other disciplines.

I have gained far more practical experience with fluid mechanics calculations and understanding of engineering drawings / communication, while developing my knowledge of the water treatment industry.

Over time I was given more leadership opportunities in the different tasks I was involved in, even being the primary mechanical engineer undertaking relevant project scope. My work was still checked by senior engineers, but the responsibility to direct and undertake the project was trusted to me.

Everyone at the company is happy to offer any guidance they can if you ask for their assistance, and there is an understanding you'll need more support when you start. You'll probably still need additional guidance, but it is up to you to seek it.

Everyone is very welcoming and happy to help, with a good amount of work events and opportunities inside and outside the office. People seem content to come into work and work alongside each other.

I was very happy with my placement and believe it was very beneficial to my studies and professional development.

Yes

Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions, even about things that might seem obvious. There is a lot of factors, variability, and moving parts in the different projects you will work on and practically all of it could be new, learning as you go is expected.