In July 2020, I started my Metallurgy Placement with the Materials Group at RWE Generation UK. Usually, my role would involve preparing and analysing component samples at the laboratory, but I have been working from home for the first quarter of my placement, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Irrespective of this, I still feel very well-supported in RWE’s open and inclusive corporate culture. My colleagues are always approachable and have provided valuable guidance to navigate my placement year, especially in the current circumstances.
RWE has effectively adopted virtual platforms to involve students like myself in their ongoing projects and interactions. This is particularly important given that working from home can sometimes limit the delivery of practical on-the-job training. The interactive online learning sessions with RWE’s Training Academy were especially beneficial for me, because they provided a thorough insight into power plant operations, and showcased the importance of my degree discipline in maintaining a reliable and consistent supply of energy.
My technical skills are developing through research, report writing and data processing, be it for emergent tasks or wider failure investigations. The company has also made special arrangements for me to complete my training at the laboratory, and it was reassuring to see that steps had been taken to ensure that the workplace was well-equipped and COVID-secure. I am confident that RWE will continue to encourage me to enhance my practical experience, by facilitating opportunities for me to work at the laboratory during the rest of my year in industry.
