Charlie Hodgson
MEng Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year, 2019
Concept Engineer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
I am responsible for customer facing 3D geometry of bespoke projects for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Reporting to the Design Team but liaising with Engineering Teams to protect design intent whilst ensuring feasibility, longevity and regulatory requirements of the project. The projects I cover are one-offs for specific customers so low number batch runs for collections, or higher number runs for optional extras.
What is the best thing about what you are doing now?
I work on projects that wouldn’t be achievable at any other automotive company, and the team of designers are incredibly talented and very inspiring, whilst allowing me range to come up with ideas myself.
What made you interested in your current role?
I did a year’s internship in Rolls-Royce Bespoke Engineering as part of my degree, during which I did three months as an extension working with the Design Team in the role I have now. I really enjoyed the CAD work and the liaising with different teams.
How has your career developed since graduating?
My abilities in talking to different types of people (such as purchasing, engineering and artistic specialists) has improved massively. My CAD abilities have improved and I’ve been able to install new processes to aid more efficient workflow.
What motivates you?
Seeing the end result and the very special cars my team and company are able to produce.
Why did you originally apply to the University of Birmingham?
I saw UBRacing and thought ‘this is where I want to be’!.
What are your fondest memories of the University?
Winning the dynamic events of Formula Student and coming 2nd overall at Silverstone whilst I was Team Principal! A gruelling and tough time to get there but the feeling of our achievement after was incredible!
How did your time at University help you start your career?
Understanding how to use CAD software and understanding how to talk confidently in front of others and present technical aspects to those who might not have the same understanding as you.
“Definitely get involved with any extracurricular design projects if that’s what you enjoy about engineering. As many real-life projects as possible will always be impressive to employers!”
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