Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I started out as an apprentice in Design and Drafting as I didn’t want to go to university, but 2 years into my apprenticeship I was asked if I would like the opportunity to go to university part time and I thought, why not? I studied a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical and Electronic Systems Engineering and then went on to complete my Masters in Mechanical Design Engineering all while working full time. I’m so glad I decided to go to university and study as I would never be where I am today.
What was your favourite subject in school and why?
I really enjoyed Maths and Graphic Communication but I never really thought about Engineering as a career until I was in 6th year. I liked that there is a right answer in maths, its not about your opinion.
What subjects/qualifications/skills are useful for your role?
I have Maths and Graphics at higher level. Physics would he useful too as these subjects would help with engineering theory.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
I love that no day is the same. I’m always interacting with different departments and clients which I love. I love meeting new people and learning about their experiences. I also love being able to visit the sites that I’ve worked on and I get to see the scale of some of the work I do.
What is a normal day in your role like?
There is no day that is really the same. Normally I sit at my computer all day while analysing the pipework model for my project and speak to the designers and onsite construction team. I try to keep in touch with my team as much as I can throughout the week to make sure everyone’s doing okay and doesn’t need any help or assistance from me. Sometimes I get to attend site if there are any issues that need solving.
And what does your job title mean?
My job title as Engineer is quite broad, I specialise in piping engineering. Currently I look at the piping model and decide if the design is fit for purpose – basically can you construct what has been designed, is it achievable.