Background:
I graduated with a PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering from Aberdeen University. After 4 years of academic research, which I thoroughly enjoyed, I wanted to use my skills in an industrial environment. As a graduate with a PhD degree I found myself in a position of being overqualified for most of the graduate positions, but at the same time lacking practical experience required for most of the permanent positions. Air Products was one of the very few employers offering a unique Graduate Scheme specially designed for PHDs and it turned out to be a perfect match for me. I am very happy to work for an employer that values my background and experience, while giving me plenty of opportunities for further development.
My current Role & Responsibilities:
I am currently in my first assignment, working as a Development Engineer for Package Gasses business. I am part of R&D group developing new technologies for the metal fabrication industry. My role is a combination of applied research and project management and includes a wide variety of tasks. The research work is something I am very familiar with, however the nature of the work is much more dynamic. The role gives me a great level of responsibility, since as a technical project lead I am responsible for the development of the new offering.
Key points in my career development:
Taking on responsibility of the technical project lead was a great development opportunity for me. This role provided me with many new experiences, like co-ordinating all project activities, having decision-making authority and establishing relationships with suppliers. My manager has been very supportive of my development and next to my project work gave me opportunity to participate in various training events and visit many Air Products sites during my first year.
Best aspect of the job:
Development work is very challenging and rewarding at the same time. The fact of contributing to a new technical solution is a great motivation for me. It also provides me with a good level of responsibility and the chance to work very independently. At the same time I know that there are always helpful and knowledgeable people around that I can turn to for advice. My role offers great learning opportunity by forcing me to leave my comfort zone and solve problems from various engineering disciplines.
Goals or aims for the future:
The range of career paths possible within Air Products is really wide, so I am looking forward to making the most of this programme by taking on completely different assignments during the 3 years on the PhD Graduate Scheme. I have always enjoyed analytical and numerical work so next year I am planning to work for the Advanced Process Control group. In my last year I hope to try a business-oriented role, which should give me a wide portfolio of experiences which will be helpful in my future career.
