Earlier this month we hosted Michael Smyth for a week of work experience, where he undertook a visit to one of our live school sites, Blessed Carlo Acutis in Merthyr Tydfil as well as getting to grips with CAD software and learning about the day-to-day of life of an engineer at Cambria. Here, Michael shares his experiences of how his week with both the civil and structural engineering teams went and all he has learned from his time with us:
I’ve been interested in construction engineering for some time and wanted experience in structural and civil engineering to understand what a role in the field would look like on a day-to-day basis. I am currently studying maths at degree level and know that I want to pursue a career in engineering of some kind.
I’m grateful to have been given the opportunity to come to Cambria and enjoyed an extremely beneficial week that gave me some real insight. Everyone was so warm and I really appreciate the time taken by the staff to show me how to use engineering software and to explain different techniques and processes relating to their areas of expertise.
During the first few days I spent time with the structural engineers, learning how to use software such as Tekla to design and carry out analysis on the structure of a school. I was shown two different approaches to this project, looking at a steel frame building and then a reinforced concrete option. I also learned how to undertake different calculations concerning loads and specific parts of a structure, and it was great to see a different side of the job in drawing up a report of a visual inspection.
Alongside this, I was taken on site to a big secondary school in Merthyr Tydfil by Kiron, a Director at Cambria, which gave me great insight into several of the ongoing operations on the project, including power grouting, foundations work and binding steel bars.
During the week I was able to transfer my project onto Revit, a 3-D CAD software used to collaborate with architects and mechanical and electrical engineers. I had never used CAD before, so this was eye opening.
On my final day I joined the civil engineering team, which was really enjoyable and gave me the chance to learn about different opportunities including highways and soil surveying. I also spent time discussing drainage design and techniques with Rhys, who was both patient and really kind to answer all of my questions in detail.
I’m taking so much away from this week at Cambria – the guidance I received was constructive and will definitely help me progress with my career choices. I would like to thank everyone on the team for making me feel welcome and taking the time to show me what they do. Having no previous experience in this area, the taste I have had amongst real engineers in their working environment has encouraged me to look further into civil engineering and I hope to have a similar opportunity with Cambria in the future!
Trish Michael at Cambria Consulting said: “It’s been brilliant to have Michael with us this week. He was a pleasure to host, asked lots questions and engaged with the team and the projects he was working on. We are thrilled he has indicated a desire to look further into civil engineering and we would welcome him back anytime. He even left a lovely box of chocolates for us all to share – big tick in my book!”
