Student Mechanical Engineer Review

Felt very welcomed and valued while working here. The placement offered more opportunities than expected to develop and learn a variety of new skills. Obtaining and working on this placement was the best move for my personal career and development to date.

All work I conducted was professionally reviewed and appreciated, not only by my direct manager but also others within the company. Had the chance to bond with a variety of people within the company from engineers on the ground to Directors, all of whom were welcoming and friendly.

General guidance and help was always available or accessible, however there was a lack of mechanical technical support. I believe this is a result of the project I was located at not having an assigned mechanical engineer, but the staff around me where always willing to try and help solve the problem.

The workload fluctuated throughout the placement however there were significantly more times where worked was needed to be done than not.

I was assigned three different design projects during the placement. It was my sole responsibility to obtain a design, manufacturer and quote for each of these. One of which I successfully obtained funding for from the company and is currently being manufactured and soon to be installed.

The placement provided me with the perfect opportunity to use and enhance my engineering skills within a 'real-life' situation. It has refined certain aspects of how I approach the work and this will aid me for my final year of University. A slightly greater insight into the management or business side of the project/company is something I would have liked the opportunity to do.

The office had a very good balance of professionalism yet relaxed. Never felt out of place or as if I could not ask a question.

The initial organising, in terms of project location, contract and dates, was poorly done. There was a distinct lack of communication and confirmation of location was left very late, which was a problem for relocation and finding accommodation. However, once the placement commenced the organisation was faultless. Communication, task deadlines and conference calls all happened with ease.

I have been very impressed with my personal development while working here on placement. I have managed to start my Portfolio for chartership, obtain a First Aid at Work certificate (through a 3 day course), had Behavioural Safety training and completed my ECS (Electrotechnical Certification Scheme) training. This was all completed within 10 weeks alongside my project work.

The personal and career development is a very exciting prospect with Costain. I am looking forward to continue working and learning with them.

Did not interact with any employees outside of work, which was a shame as we had a good rapport while working.

Living costs were cheap and there was an allowance that covered my accommodation costs.

The location of the project was relatively remote and offered very little in terms of nightlife/socialising, which was disappointing.

There was very little to do outside of work in the area. I managed to join the local leisure centre however it was of poor quality.