What do you do?
I am currently a final year student of Mechanical Engineering (MEng Hons) at Newcastle University.
I’ve been fortunate enough to apply my skills in industry during a year long placement with Ricardo Plc, as a Project Engineer within their Performance Development department.
During holiday periods throughout my time at University, I’ve also had the opportunity to get the following relevant additional industrial / working experiences:
- Mechanical Research Engineer (H2GEAR Project) – GKN Aerospace
- Data Analyst – UK Consortium on Turbulent Reacting Flows (UKCTRF)
- Mathematics Teacher – The Sir Robert Woodard Academy (SRWA)
- Equality Project Support (Data Analyst) – NUs Faculty of Medical Sciences
Post-graduation I will be joining the industry as a Mechanical Engineering (Building Services) Graduate with Arup.
What inspired you to be an engineer?
I was influenced by my father from a young age to take on the sciences. I naturally found myself enticed by toys and books relevant to engineering. As a born and bred Ghanaian, he was always motivated by using his trade to improve life for citizens back in Ghana and wherever else he could.
This was something that became hardwired into my own mind. I want to make long-lasting, positive, generational differences and help others do the same through my work in the engineering industry.
Why did you want to become registered as an EngTech?
I was fortunate enough to have the support available to me during my industrial placement with Ricardo Plc. Claire Maycock of the IMechE played an essential role in facilitating this and provided details of all the benefits involved with this membership.
An important goal of mine is to become Chartered as soon as possible, to show a high level of competency and to benefit my company - having this professional accreditation makes the process to achieve this much easier.
How has being EngTech helped your career?
I have access to regular magazines covering a range of projects, information, and general updates about the industry; opportunities to communicate with other IMechE members who are experts and specialise in a wide range of different fields; and lastly, a library with large databases.
There is an abundance of knowledge and support available which has assisted me in the quality of work I’ve produce during university and helped during my job hunting (e.g. interview knowledge, strengthening application, etc.)
What are your top member benefits?
I believe the availability of numerous courses and events released for members aids professional development very well, especially for a student / soon-to-be graduate.
My confidence in my industrial knowledge has steadily increased since becoming a member due to the resources accessible to me. For broader and more general awareness within engineering, the PE magazine which is sent to members has been an extremely useful resource.
What advice do you have for engineers considering professional registration?
I would recommend my peers to pursue professional accreditation / registration with the IMechE. I believe it is worth it at any level whether that be a student, graduate, or more experienced professional.
It is an indication of your competency as an engineer which is beneficial to your career and gives confidence to those around you who may not be familiar with your work / capabilities. Furthermore, the access to knowledge is very much worthwhile and will keep you updated with technological developments, large-scale projects, and much more.