GovWire

Case study: Ben: graduate engineer jet-setting from the office to Japan

Defence Science Technology Laboratory

November 14
12:53 2023

Our graduate engineer Ben is making the most of his graduate scheme here. He graduated with a degree in mathematics from Portsmouth University, and joined Dstl in April 2022 on the platforms systems graduate scheme. He is currently on his third rotation.

Ben explains what the most exciting thing he has done so far at Dstl is (that he can share):

My work on Future Combat Air System (FCAS) Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) which is all to do with new combat air. It was such a great networking and learning opportunity for me.

I contributed to industry reviews, worked directly alongside subject matter experts - who are a lot higher grade than me - and learnt the role industry plays. It was so exciting to be involved with such high-level senior engagement. I also got to travel to all around the UK, including London, Warton, Bristol and I was even able to go out to Japan!

He also talks about what he enjoys most about working here:

For me, the unique problem solving challenges, I find the open-endedness of problems intriguing. Right now, I am working with the Threat Evaluation team on identifying what a mystery piece of kit does - where else can you do that!

Bens advice for a graduate or student considering their options, and potentially looking at Dstl:

I would advise them to think about what they enjoy and not be swept up into typical career paths. The vast majority of opportunities presented to me at career fairs were focused in finance or investment banking so dont get caught up in where everyone else seems to be going, it may not be for you!

For me, going into the civil service was a spring board for more career options. I have been given the scope and opportunity to learn and grow. Flexibility in work is such a sales point and with such a wide variety of work, you wont be looking for the door. My friends who have joined industry have been pigeon-holed with very specific growth routesand theres nothing wrong with that, it just didnt suit me.

Id also advise them to not be deterred if they havent got a military background or a complete understanding of the defence industryit can all be taught. The thing to prioritise is the area and skill you enjoy. I would say go outside your comfort zone.

The culture here is something else Ben recommends:

Im mainly in the office but when I really need to work from home, its useful to have that opportunity. The fact I get fantastic access to world specialists is so unique. One day in the office I can be next to a Radio Frequency specialist and the next an Optic Specialist and work with them on international advice!

As long as I show a genuine interest, I can have a conversation with anyone, no matter their seniority and their willingness to help is great! I feel respected.

Joining the graduate scheme, I have become part of a small cohort which is great because I get a lot of one to one support and attention from my team leader helping to shape my development as personal to me and what I want to achieve. I can also reach out to my peers for support to, or help them. Personally, I am not a member of an employee support network, but I know colleagues that are who have received help from them. I like working for an organisation that offers the support to those who need it.

Published 14 November 2023

Related Articles

Comments

  1. We don't have any comments for this article yet. Why not join in and start a discussion.

Write a Comment

Your name:
Your email:
Comments:

Post my comment

News Calendar

Recent Comments

Follow Us on Twitter

Share This


Enjoyed this? Why not share it with others if you've found it useful by using one of the tools below: