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• Chris

Meet our people

University: South Bank and Liverpool
Degree type: BEng (Hons) Chem Eng and MSc(Eng) Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Technology

Tell me about the Automation Engineering Technical Development Programme.
This is a programme for graduates who want to gain a real breadth and depth of knowledge in automation engineering. You’ll learn about all aspects of the computer systems validation lifecycle, including user specification, functional specification, and software/hardware design specification and testing. What makes this a bit different from a lot of other graduate programmes though is that you’ll get countless opportunities to actually put your learning to the test, on real-life projects.

What can I look forward to?
The great thing about this programme is that you’re able to work on projects of all sizes. From simple configuration changes such as editing the graphic displays that process operators use to monitor manufacturing processes, right through to more significant projects where changes are made to actual manufacturing software. There’s even the scope to get involved in large projects like the installation of new reactors, filters and driers.

What kind of support will I receive?
I’ve attended all sorts of training courses and workshops that have taught me about the wider business and helped develop me professionally. In addition, my line managers have always been there to provide me with the guidance and mentoring I need. Another useful resource you’re provided with is a mentor from another department – someone you can turn to for advice and feedback that’s completely impartial.

What does it lead on to?
The main reason I decided to join the programme was to aid my transition from postgraduate to competent professional engineer. And to that end, the programme has been excellent. I started out as a junior control systems technologist, providing troubleshooting and maintenance support for manufacturing suites as well as supporting project with code development. After that I was promoted through the Process Control and Automation department to principle automation engineer and deputy to the process control and automation manager. So, in terms of career development, the programme is outstanding.

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