We spoke to Obedience Aruna, a Graduate Engineer working for Telent in Leicester:
Can you describe your role in a few words?
As contractors for Network Rail Telecom we deliver the renewal of legacy telecommunications equipment by designing new IP infrastructure producing both high and low level designs.
What were you doing prior to your Grad Scheme?
I was studying at university, before going to university I completed an apprenticeship.
What was your perception of the sector before you started your apprenticeship?
I originally started an apprenticeship as I thought that it would be an ideal path and save a fortune in tuition fees. However, I realised that not all apprenticeships have the same level of quality or progression. I needed a degree to get where I wanted to be, and the company I was employed by at the time weren’t able to help me to get there so I went to university and took the knowledge of working in a workplace with me.
What interested you in joining Telent?
Telent is a small enough company as a graduate to not be easily lost in the system or fall through the cracks, but also a big enough company to make a difference and be recognised for your work nationwide.
What are the top 3 things you’ve learnt so far in your job?
- Technology changes everyday and there is always something new to learn.
- Working with different people in different departments can be very challenging. Persistence is key when needing responses from people across the business!
- This job was here before I arrived and will be here once I move on. So do your best and work to the best of your capabilities and the rest will sort itself out.
What is the most exciting part of your job?
Driving down the motorway or sitting on train and going past infrastructure that you worked on and made a difference on. To every other person on that train they will most likely never ever notice but to me it’s a greatest satisfaction. It’s like being a hero in the shadows.
Do you think you will have the opportunity to work on HS2 in the future?
My career is only just beginning, so yes I hope to in the future work. After completing my grad scheme, I plan to continue working in engineering and grow myself. And maybe even become a chartered engineer one day.