Reading time: 3 minsWhat made you choose this graduate scheme?
I was fortunate enough to have completed my bachelor's with a 2:1 which was above what NR required for this scheme. Therefore, I applied for several schemes including Tfl and made it through to the final stages. However, I decided to go for NR because they not only provided an Overall better package but the potential projects I could work on and future prospects that could be available to me drew me to NR. Lastly, I was also in contact with past Graduates on LinkedIn, making my decision easier.
What does a typical day in the life look like?
Currently, I am on a 6-month maintenance placement at three bridges. The days can vary depending on what little side projects are available. However, generally, I am assisting the Assistant E&P Maintenance Engineer with his daily tasks such as organize contractors' work orders into a spreadsheet and subsequently creating another spreadsheet which will later be used to populate Eclipse. Eclipse is a database that stores information on existing assets.
How has the graduate scheme improved your skills?
This Graduate scheme has filled me with the boldness to speak to senior members of staff and convey information clearly and accurately. Furthermore, it continuously challenges me to improve my time management and organizational skills as progress demands continuous improvement.
What type of projects have you worked on so far?
Luckily due to the aid of Tom Carter, I have been able to be a part of several small projects such as:
- TECM (Target Earth Calculation model) which is used to determine the target earth values for signal power cables
- Aldershot TP-Hut conversion which was a project that aimed to convert a TP-Hut into a substation whilst also installing solar panels with the potential of feeding the track/domestics.
- Locate new sites for TP-Hut conversion and solar panel implementation. This was a project revolving around locating sites across kent and sussex which could be compatible for such a conversion.
What is the support like at Network Rail?
From my personal experience, the support here has been great. Senior members of staff and the EGPT are readily available when possible. The main thing is that people must be confident enough to ask and to not be afraid to send a reminder of follow up message.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced?
The biggest Challenge I’ve faced would be the ‘imposter syndrome’. I am well aware of what I signed up and I am confident in myself that I am capable of meeting targets and exceeding them. However, that does not stop my conscious from sneaking doubts into my mind.
What do you enjoy working on?
I enjoy working on projects that I know are making a difference in the grand scheme of things but also enjoy researching novel/innovative ideas as they bring inspiration.
What made you consider Network Rail? Did you have any misconceptions before you joined?
Before I joined, I was aware of what industry I was joining and due to having family members and friends who also work on the railway speak positively about NR, it was a relatively easy decision.
Do you have any advice for other people looking to apply for graduate schemes?
I find it hard to give advice as I myself am still seeking to identify my spot in this company however, if they are like me and are unsure then joining NR might be what they need. Being able to go on multiple placements and experience what occurs at different departments is valuable and can give one a better insight as to where they want to be in the future. There are countless of testimonies of people moving around the company and working for several departments. This shows that progression in this company is very much viable with the right amount of effort.
How did you find the application process?
The application process was fairly smooth. Naturally, it did take some time to move from step to step and wish there was more/quicker communication, however I had no real difficulties.