I am a Project Engineer at AEGIS Engineering Systems (part of iKOS Group) within the Specialist Engineering Team. My main responsibility is to provide safety assurance for rolling stock. When there is a significant change in the UK Railway network, such as a train modification or the introduction of a new class of train or maintenance machine, it undergoes a risk assessment to ensure it is safe to operate. I support projects by defining the scope of the risk assessment, carrying out the risk management and assessment process, and preparing safety cases to help clients obtain authorisation from the safety regulation authority. Currently, I am on a placement with the rolling stock design team, conducting design work on existing trains. With my expertise in safety, I evaluate and analyse the safety implications of the designs and provide advice. I also perform structural analysis to verify the safety of the designs and prepare engineering reports.
Outside of my job, I serve as the National Into Rail Manager for a not-for-profit organisation called Young Rail Professionals (YRP). I dedicate some work time and personal time to YRP activities. This includes attending university fairs and supporting induction events, to promote YRP and inspire young people to pursue careers in rail.
What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?
Systems thinking is a crucial skill that I use extensively in my job. My degree has helped me gain an appreciation for the various systems within the railway network. Understanding the complexity of the railway system and how different systems and humans interface and interact is vital for conducting effective risk assessments. Studying alongside classmates who work for various companies within the industry, including infrastructure managers, operators, and maintenance entities, has allowed me to understand the business nature of different organisations. This experience has equipped me with the ability to adopt different communication techniques and better understand our clients’ needs as a consultant.
What are your top tips for securing a job in the United Kingdom or your home country?
Understanding the skills a job requires and knowing your own strengths and weaknesses are crucial. It’s okay if your profile doesn’t match 100% of the job requirements. Demonstrating how your skills can be transferred and applied to the job, along with showing dedication to improving your weaknesses, can be a significant advantage. During interviews, I strongly recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioural-based questions. This method helps you provide strong reasoning and solid evidence to support why you deserve the job. In addition to technical skills, it’s important to showcase good interpersonal skills and social sensitivity. Sometimes, highlighting unique aspects of your character can make you stand out, but be careful not to overdo it.
What advice would you give to current and prospective students looking to work in your sector?
I recommend current students make connections while studying the Master’s programme. The programme provides excellent opportunities to meet people working in various disciplines and organisations. By chatting with course mates, I gained insights into the industry from different perspectives and discovered potential collaboration opportunities. I also suggest students join events held by professional institutions or attend social events. Personally, I find these activities useful for broadening my network and developing my professional knowledge and skills.
What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?
Students can consider volunteering in areas that interest them, such as becoming a committee member of a society or club. Working with people and executing ideas provides invaluable real-life experiences in a more controlled environment. This often involves working in a team and coordinating with different stakeholders which helps develop problem-solving and project management skills.
I still find these experiences useful even after graduation. As the Into Rail Manager of Young Rail Professionals (YRP), I have a great platform to pursue my values and aspirations of promoting and inspiring people to join the railway industry and further develop professionals. With the support and resources available in the network, I can bring my ideas to life, such as organising community engagement events. Throughout this process, I have learned a lot, which helps me stand out from others.