Testimonials
Daisy Chapman
Summer 2021 Case Study
Daisy studied for an integrated Masters in Naval Architecture at the University of Southampton. Daisy spent her internship with BP which has led to a post graduate place on the BP graduate scheme in September 2022.
“The placement was a really great opportunity to see what working at such a large business would entail. As the breadth of what they do is so varied, as is the graduate scheme, I was able to work with the technology side of things and learn about the new tech that companies are considering implementing for carbon emission reduction measures.
To have come on board in some capacity in the first year of BP’s reinvention has set me on a good starting foot for pursuing my desire to work in emissions reduction and environmental protection, as well as exposing me to the culture and history of how this change has occurred. As I graduate into industry I feel this context is going to be especially useful in having an appreciation for the context of how the industry is run and an appreciation for the issues that change may entail, blending the history of BP with where it, and the industry as a whole, are headed.
It completely changed my viewpoint about working for a large company versus a smaller design firm, hugely boosted my confidence and communication skills, and I was actually offered a position within their graduate scheme off the back of the internship.
The placement was an incredible opportunity to see the difference in processes and working style between education and industry and I found the wealth of experience from my team of immense value. To have then had a job offer for a role that I enjoyed so much, and as part of a team that I felt privileged to work in, is wonderful. It will be a great opportunity to try some new things within the industry and to develop as a naval architect.”
Daniel Warren
2021 Case Study
Daniel completed his placement while studying at the International Boatbuilding Training College. He now works for Broadland Boat Builders in Norfolk.
“The course at IBTC gave me a foundation of skills and knowledge to build on in a career. It also gave me the contacts to find a job. I certainly wouldn’t have got my current job without it.
My placement gave me the confidence in tool use and skills as well as good bunch of friends.
I am working at Broadland Boat Builders in St Olaves, Norfolk, a traditional wooden boatyard. I intend to remain boatbuilding in yards for the next few years to build up my skills. I might go into other areas of woodwork depending on the circumstances.”
Chloe Fisher
Summer 2021 Case Study
Chloe studied MEng Marine Technology with Naval Architecture at Newcastle University. Chloe spent her internship with Sea-Kit International which has led to a postgraduate opportunity.
“I’m currently pursuing the role of a graduate naval architect within the rapidly evolving marine autonomy sector. Alongside core naval architecture responsibilities regarding stability, seakeeping, structures, etc, I am hoping to develop my understanding and skills within control system design (mainly autopilots and manoeuvring simulators) and the shaping of new goal-based regulatory frameworks, as well as more general project management and commercial aspects. With support from my employer, I will work toward becoming a chartered naval architect.
My placement was a rewarding opportunity to put three years of studies into practice in an interesting and innovative way with meaningful purpose within industry. It highlighted to me that the application of core naval architecture philosophies to uncrewed vessels results in a fundamental and fascinating shift in priorities and design considerations regarding general arrangement, auxiliary systems, stability and more.
More generally, it taught me a lot about the working world including the importance of teamwork, communication skills and time management. It also gave me the chance to increase my confidence to speak to, and learn from, a range of co-workers, clients, suppliers, contractors, and more who have all had different career paths and experiences across many transferable industries. Their advice and support have been invaluable in helping me set my own career ambitions.
It has certainly fuelled my passion to enter into the marine autonomy sector, put my growing skill set to use and continually learn more about what is possible when innovatively changing the way in which maritime operations are carried out to reduce our environmental impact. Following completion of the internship, I was invited to return to SEA-KIT upon graduation and will continue work with them come September.”
Rafael Blanco
2021 Case Study
Rafael completed his placement while studying at the International Boatbuilding Training College and currently works at Oyster Yachts in Southampton.
“When I left college initially I wanted to pursue a career in the more traditional side of wooden boat building, however when I looked around for jobs with reputable companies in this field it was slim pickings at best.
I applied to Oyster Yachts as I had heard about their history and knew it was a well-respected, luxury brand. I have always wanted to work for a company that focuses on sail boats rather than motor as I’ve always liked the fact that sail boats have the ability to go anywhere in the world at almost any given time without the restraints of fuel. Secondly it’s a lot more sustainable and I feel that the market will revert back to sail boats as things get more expensive.
My placement allowed me to go into an industry that I had only put my foot through the door with a self-confidence and skillset that if challenged with a problem I would be able to solve using the skills, tuition and methods that I had learnt.
The amount of information that is on offer and that is provided is near endless and this definitely pushed me to try and strive for a job with one of the most highly respected yacht building companies in the UK.”