I chose the BEng (Hons) Marine Technology course, which is perfectly suited to anyone keen to work in the marine industry. Since graduation, my degree has provided many exciting opportunities, and, as a result, I have never looked back.
As part of my course I opted to do a one year's work placement with Princess Yachts International. During the placement I found myself to be an integral part of the busy and demanding naval architecture team, involved in production, development and design on a wide range of projects. As well as strengthening my understanding of marine legislation and knowledge of the yacht manufacturing industry, I also found the placement invaluable to developing my confidence, communication and problem-solving skills.
Upon returning to my studies I was able to apply the skills and experience I had gained to my final year project - the design of a tender rigid inflatable boat (RIB) for Princess Yachts.
After graduation, I gained employment with Babcock Marine (Devonport), as a Naval Architect Graduate Trainee. This was a two year programme, during which I moved around the company gaining experience in different areas of the business. Over this period, I built on the knowledge and skills I had developed at university, and identified the area of engineering which most interested me. My degree proved invaluable, enabling me to get involved in the build of an RNLI Tamar Class Lifeboat, the stability inclination of naval warships and to assist with the detail design of superyachts.
On completion of the graduate training programme, I moved into my first role of responsibility within Babcock. I now work within the Naval Architecture Design Group, as a Design Engineer (Naval Architect). I help provide professional engineering support to the dockyard on surface ship, submarine or commercial (yacht) projects. I am currently working towards professional chartered status, in view of becoming a member of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) in the next few years.