An engineering career
There are many different areas people work in at the NOC, and science isn’t the only career path available. Those working to support marine equipment generally come from an engineering background.
Starting a career in engineering doesn’t require expert knowledge, but curiosity, methodical thinking and the willingness to just have a go. Technician Tom and apprentice David both work in the NMFSS Base Engineering team at NOC, Southampton where they work on winches, umbilical cords and other parts of ship based equipment. They have been talking about how they came to work in such an industry.
When did your interest in engineering start?
David: “I was never someone who as a kid took things apart and put them back together, but I did engineering at school and it came to a stage where I thought why not make a career out of it. Oceanography sounded intriguing, so I thought I’d give it a go.”
Tom: “My dad and granddad worked in engineering so I grew up with it, working on steam engines and military vehicles.”
What qualifications do you have?
Tom: “I did a four year engineering apprenticeship and a BTEC in engineering”.
David: “I did a double GCSE in Engineering and a basic six month course before I started my apprenticeship here. I’ll get a BTEC Certificate in Mechanical Engineering Level 3 when I’ve finished.”
What do you enjoy most about engineering?
Tom: “The practical side, I wouldn’t want to be sat in an office. I like maintenance and repair you get a sense of accomplishment.”
David: “I like being on the ship and getting to see the equipment working. I like the fact that I can do so many other things now, like refitting my kitchen.”
If a career in engineering sounds appealing and you would like more information these external links may be of use:
http://www.tomorrowsengineers.org.uk/careers.cfm.
