Case Study

I was interested in studying at the University of Sunderland because the Engineering courses were rated highly on university rankings. I also liked that they were accredited by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and was aware that there are good job opportunities in Sunderland and the north-east. After living in the Midlands, moving away from home for the first time gave me independence and the opportunity to learn new life skills.  

I studied Engineering and Product Design at GCSE and A level, and through studying both the practical and theoretical side it made me realise that this was a profession I wanted to go into. I enjoyed working on real-world projects as well as solving problems, and going to university would allow me to strengthen these skills and learn more about which path in engineering I would follow.

The variety of subjects and learning opportunities at the University of Sunderland is great. During year one, you'll have modules which cover all engineering disciplines available (Mechanical, Electrical and Automotive) which allows you to select your preferred route for year two and three. Project management modules help you plan while working on projects, such as your dissertation, or for use in working life. The lecturers were incredibly supportive and helped teach me methods that I use to this day.

My favourite subject while studying Mechanical Engineering was computer aided engineering. I was able to further my skills working with Computer Aided Design (CAD) in designing components, which is something I enjoy and continue to use in my career. During my postgraduate degree, I enjoyed studying automation and mechatronics, which helped me with programming and component selection of automated systems and their design.

Studying at the University of Sunderland gave me the skills that helped me into my career, and I have since been able to cover a variety of job roles. I have worked as a Project Engineer for AKS, where I worked in manufacturing, specifically in an automotive environment, as well as helping to increase production flow and day to day engineering tasks. I then moved to BHK, in which I designed, fabricated, and commissioned robotic automated cells to CE standards.

I now work for AESC (formally Envision AESC) which supplies electric vehicle batteries for automotive companies such as Nissan, and in the future, we will supply for Jaguar Landrover (JLR). As a facility engineer, I help to build new greenfield sites for AESC by installing new manufacturing lines. I am also now a member of the IET and hope to achieve chartership in Engineering and move into a management role within my field.

If I could give advice to someone studying Engineering, it would be to get as much real-world practical experience as possible through opportunities such as the year in industry. It will give you a real advantage in comparison to people who have not done this. I had no practical experience in my undergraduate degree but had five years’ experience while completing my masters. The difference when it came to understanding and applying practical knowledge was undeniable.

Studying here has helped me gain skills in Engineering, build lifelong friendships, and achieve a career I've always wanted."

Published 21 September 2023