How long have you worked at AWE?
2 years
What did you study at university?
Aeronautical Engineering (MEng)
Tell us about your time at AWE?
I have worked in various Production Technology Centres as a Manufacturing Engineer, looking at processes and tooling to realise product design. Additionally, I have spent 6 months as the Technical Advisor to Director Production supporting key projects and learning the wider business. A typical day in the life of a Manufacturing Engineer is to work with front line workers, tooling engineers and the wider stakeholder community to make continuous improvements to the way we carry out our production processes.
Why did you choose AWE?
AWE caught my attention due to the unique nature of the company. From a production point of view, no other company in the UK provides the same service.
What’s the best thing about your job?
It may sound bizarre, but the most exciting thing about my role are the problems that arise on a day to day basis. They provide constant challenges and opportunities for development which you wouldn’t get if the role was easy. Especially in Production you have to work with a wide range of stakeholders to solve a problem, from site engineers to safety to front line workers. The pressure to deliver can provide additional challenges, however, seeing the success in front of your eyes is extremely rewarding. Aside from the on the job work, I have been involved with outreach programmes to promote STEM and make an influence for the future. I have also been involved with the UK Challenge. This is an event that companies all over the country enter with the aim of improving teamwork through various activities such as running, cycling, rowing and puzzle solving.
What are the benefits?
The flexibility of working at AWE is fantastic for having a good work-life balance and with the 9-day fortnight, there is plenty of opportunities to relax or do something productive at home. AWE also suits my needs for career ambition. I also like to make the most of the benefits scheme AWE provides; I have used the ride to work scheme and gym membership salary sacrifice options.
Due to the size and constant evolution of the business, there is increasing opportunity for career development. There is plenty of focus from senior management to develop employees from the bottom of the chain.
How do you see your career progressing?
I am very keen to develop my technical and leadership skills, which there are ample opportunities to do. I look forward to getting into line management and efficiently delivering as a team. It would be fantastic to say I, and my team, have delivered a high-profile project.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining the graduate scheme at AWE?
My advice would be to drive your graduate scheme in the direction you want. There are so many opportunities within AWE so think carefully about how you make the most of the two-year graduate scheme.