I use CAD to design overhead line equipment (OLE) for the railway. I also produce technical reports, layout plans, cross sections and allocation sheets, which are used by a construction team to build my designs.

What is the best thing about what you are doing now?

After doing OLE design for nearly 5 years now, I have gained a lot of knowledge and understanding of OLE, such that my job has become much easier to do and much less stressful. I also find that my work/life balance is very good.

What made you interested in your current role?

After graduating I started working as a graduate OLE design engineer, and have stayed in my current field as I have learnt a lot of specific information to OLE, making me in high demand in my field.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham?

After graduating, I have been promoted twice and worked for three companies within my field, giving me a large amount of experience and connections. 

What motivates you?

I personally like to do my best where possible and to help others, which I find I am able to do really well within my field. I am also motivated by progression and becoming even more specialist within my field, which I get continuously by working within my field.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

As Birmingham is one of the top universities in the UK and I had ties to Birmingham, I believed UoB to be the best choice for me to go to University. 

How did you grow as a person by coming to University?

I thought I was independent before leaving home, but I soon learned this was not the case. I missed home a fair amount, but this is completely normal. I definitely gained an appreciation of how important it is to stay in contact with people, and this is also true when working. As I wasn't sure what career I wanted when I started university, I was able to explore different areas that interested me.

What are your fondest memories of the University?

My fondest memory of university was being part of Esports Society, where I was part of a team with four other students, and we competed together in amateur competitive tournaments. We spent a lot of time practicing as a team as well, leading to some hilarious moments, and it always felt really good when we won as a team and played well together.