In winter 2017, I visited Pembroke Power Station with my university, where I was given a tour of the entire plant and process. During my visit, I noticed how strong the safety culture at Pembroke is, and how everybody there was helpful, friendly and easy-going. Due to having such a positive experience, I sent my CV and Cover Letter to HR the very next morning!
Working in the mechanical engineering department, I gained vast amounts of knowledge around the turbine shaft-line and boiler. My main role was to monitor gas turbine conditions such as temperature, pressure, and vibration. If any conditions exhibited odd behaviour, it was my job to find out why. I rarely had two days which were the same at RWE, as a result of both planned and unplanned plant maintenance work arising. My role at Pembroke Power Station was very exciting, and as I grew into the placement, I took on more responsibilities such as managing my own jobs and teams.
What sets RWE’s placements from the rest, is the opportunity and flexibility you’re given to innovate. If you have a good idea, you’re able to pursue it and you are always listened to. You also feel that people value you and your work, and this culture is what made me enjoy working at RWE the most. It’s because of this culture, that I was able to build a tool to help the engineers track damaged thermocouples in the gas turbine and model their failure.
If you’re looking for an exciting and dynamic role, where you’ll gain tons of industrial experience and skills, then I suggest you apply. My main advice to anybody applying is: be hungry to learn. Take advantage of the fact you’re working with some of the best minds in their field, and what you learn from them will no doubt benefit you in the future. And all that in just 12 months!
