Tom - Engineering Placement Student

Meet Tom, our engineering placement student for 2018/2019. Tom completed his 1 year industrial placement at ETL and was involved in a number of challenging engineering projects working on the launch of 2 new products. Find out about Tom's Arkwright scholarship journey with ETL and his top tips for placement success.

What was your first impression of ETL Systems when you started working here?

My first impression was during my work experience as an Arkwright student, there was lots of information to take in over a short period of time, but even during that short time I managed to learn a lot, which is why I was eager to return for an industrial placement.

What did you want to achieve whilst working at ETL?

I wanted to gain experience in Engineering, it is an area of interest that has been continuous throughout my studies, and something I want to pursue in my future. I also have a trip to Japan planned before I return to University so saving money for travelling was a bonus!

How have you developed whilst working at ETL?

I’ve learned a lot about mechanical design whilst at ETL, being based in the Mechanical team, but I have also gained experience from other departments including electrical, PCB design elements and even some RF design. As my first proper job has been here at ETL, I have also gained experience in working to schedules, meeting deadlines and task management. I have also learned what it is to work collaboratively with my team and the wider company. I had a lot less confidence when I first started here, and I feel like it has been a good environment for me to develop my confidence as everyone is so supportive.

What did a typical day in your role involve?

A typical day for me always starts with a cup of tea, I then check my emails and TPAL (task list) for update on tasks and plan my work for the day. I do most of my work using the 3D modelling CAD package Solidworks. In the average day I tend to do mechanical design work, part updates, technical drawings, electrical schematics and sometimes product artworks. I also often help others within the department, whether I’m checking other people’s work or giving advice on specific tasks. Each day can involve working with people from many different departments.

How has ETL supported you through your engineering journey?

I started off as an Arkwright student, where ETL sponsored me, and they also housed me for work experience, and now my placement year. The support throughout has been amazing, especially my Team Leader, he has been really supportive and always makes time for me and anyone else, even when he is extremely busy himself. All of the staff have been really helpful and approachable too!

What is your most memorable moment or greatest achievement during your time at ETL?

I have two I can’t choose from; I was working on finalising the Harrier project (overall it was a 5-year project) there were lots of different challenges which took a lot of work and organisation to sort out. I also worked on the Genus project where I was working on the redundancy switch module, which is one of our newer projects.

What are the facilities like at ETL?

Really good, there is a gym on site as well as a café. Despite the company being in a very rural area, we have everything we could need!

What social or team building activities did you get involved in whilst working at ETL?

Whilst at ETL I have been invited to a few different social events outside of work, I took part in Archery and Shooting, both were organised by ETL, it was great to socialise with the team outside of work, unfortunately I didn’t win at either though.

How would you describe the culture at ETL Systems?

It’s a really pleasant environment, relaxed, collaborative, and friendly.

What are your top tips for work based placement success?

Get stuck in straight away, put yourself out there to learn as much as you possibly can. Don’t be afraid to contribute in meetings and share your ideas.

How would you rate your experience working at ETL Systems?

My experience has been quite different throughout the year, things change quite often here as the company grows and develops, but I have had a great experience. Part of those changes was going from being managed locally to remotely.

When I was managed locally, I had more guidance, but remotely I have received more responsibility and autonomy. It’s been interesting to be a part of those changes.

Would you recommend ETL for a placement year to someone you know and why?

Yes, it has been a good experience in general, and everyone has been very helpful. People really do want to work together which is great for a placement student and you can really get involved in projects.

In a few words describe working at ETL.

Challenging, enriching, dynamic.

Interested in completing a university placement at ETL?