Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

I am part of the management team for the UK Energy Systems group, where I lead our provision of advice and designs for low carbon, decentralised energy solutions to a range of public and private sector clients.

Optioneering analysis for low carbon energy provision,
Performing technical and commercial assessments,
Authoring reports,
Supervising junior colleagues,
Managing projects and their finances,
Seeking to win new work for the company.

The people I get to work with (both internally and externally),
The variety of work I am involved in.

Projects often come with challenging time-frames and also scopes of work which can vary and grow, which require careful management.

It is both interesting and varied, plus I feel my work contributes positively to the world around me.

Basic Engineering principles and understanding.
Management of time, finance and resources.
Interpersonal skills for Client interactions.

Little formal training (as and when required),
Most is informal via on-the-job experience.

2002
Employed as a Graduate Engineer by Mott MacDonald Ltd (a Consultant Engineering firm) in Sheffield

2006
Employed as a Mechanical Engineer by Ove Arup & Partners Ltd in Sheffield

2007
Transitioned to a role of Energy Consultant with Arup

2010
Undertook placement as an HVAC Engineer with Arup Canada in Toronto

2012
Gained Chartership status (CEng) with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers

2013
Employed as a Senior Energy Consultant by Arup in London

2017
Employed as an Associate by Ramboll UK Ltd in London

Continuing my employment with and career progression in Ramboll.
Developing further expertise in my chosen field.
Seeking additional opportunities to work abroad.

Seek involvement, or better still placements, with potential future employers whilst at University (I did not do this but wish that I had).
Benefits of starting your career with an engineering consultancy include an opportunity for exposure to a variety of differing disciplines and project types, from which you can derive your preferred direction.

The University of Sheffield's Engineering school continues to be recognised as one of the best by prospective UK-based employers.
A number of world-leading engineering consultancies have offices in Sheffield (and/or Leeds) meaning you have a great opportunity to both approach prospective employers and to remain in Yorkshire after your studies, if desirable.