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Meet our people

University: Heriot-Watt University
Degree type: BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering
Location: GSK House

Tell me about the Mechanical Engineering Technical Development Programme.
During my last year of university, I met a GSK engineer who’d passed through the graduate programme. I learned more about what I could expect if I applied, as well as the type of opportunities GSK could offer me in the long term. After a few discussions, I was determined I wanted to apply to this programme. I haven’t been disappointed either. The sorts of projects I’ve been able to work on range from improvement programmes such as ATEX mechanical risk assessment to capital investment projects for the supply, installation and validation of equipment.

What can I look forward to?
site. When I was based there, I worked on a variety of projects within the production area, focusing on tablet and capsule manufacture. Probably the most interesting of these involved me playing a key role in the purchase of new equipment by making detailed specifications, liaising with suppliers, assessments during build, and then qualifications after site deliveries.

What kind of support will I receive?
I have regular catch-up sessions scheduled with my manager to discuss both day-to-day activities as well as my needs in the long-term. Other people in the department are also happy to offer advice and guidance on both of these subjects. Plus there’s a scheme manager who can provide support relating to the graduate programme itself. What’s more, I’ve been able to organise a discipline-specific mentor for when I need advice on engineering development and associated careers.

What does it lead on to?
As a mechanical engineer, I’d really appreciate the opportunity to become chartered.  I also would like to build on my technical expertise and project management skills.  Although there are many chemical engineers within the business already, I’ve yet to encounter any resistance towards my aim of becoming chartered. I also feel there are sufficient opportunities within the network so that when I’m ready, there’ll be no problem in finding a position where I can focus on other core skills and challenges.

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