Pascale Mestdagh

• Location: Manchester
• Team and Business Line: Architecture – Architecture & Design

What is your name and role at AECOM? 

Pascale Mestdagh, Graduate Architectural Assistant Part 1.

How long have you worked for AECOM? 

Almost 3 years.

Describe your role and day-to-day work? 

I work on the architecture team to develop creative design solutions on projects and deliver high quality proposals for clients. As a graduate I receive guidance from my colleagues every day which has helped me to develop my understanding of working on projects at different scales and progressed my architectural skills.

Thinking about the projects you are involved in – what impact have you had to improve social outcomes for communities? 

Darlington Train Station is being refurbished to become more accessible, allowing ease of use for all members of the community by making it a more inclusive station.

How has your work at AECOM contributed towards having a positive impact on the environment? 

I have worked on projects that aim to achieve Net-Zero Carbon and sustainable certifications like BREEAM. Considering materials, technology and design from a sustainability perspective at an early stage has evolved my knowledge of sustainable design and produced projects that have a positive environmental impact.

Do you have any interesting experience around collaboration, multi dis work, and thinking and acting globally at AECOM?

I have had the pleasure of working with teams based all over the UK and the opportunity to form relationships with colleagues in other disciplines. The ADVANCE Graduate Program gave me the opportunity to meet other graduates from all over the UK and build valuable relationships.

Are there any other interesting or unique opportunities you have had through your work at AECOM? Or interesting experiences with clients or building client relationships?

The regular social activities in the office have been a wonderful opportunity to connect with colleagues from other teams.

How has AECOM helped you in your career development? 

AECOM has supported my career by allowing me to continue studying part-time while continuing to gain work experience. This has enabled me to further my education while deepening my understanding of the industry in practice working on live projects.

What do you like most about working for AECOM? 

The social connections in the office that are sustained through regular activities and a positive work environment allow me to connect with colleagues from varied backgrounds and experiences.

How do you use AECOM’s ‘Freedom to Grow’ to give you a good work/life balance? 

Through 'Freedom to Grow' I can choose to work from home before a big deadline at university, helping me use my time efficiently by reducing travel time.

What advice do you have for any prospective candidates? 

Be prepared to have a mindset open to continuous learning as work experience is a valuable teacher.

Can you describe AECOM in 3 words? 

Expansive, innovative and welcoming.