Merin’s search for placement started in January 2022 after completing a taught year at the University of Greenwich, studying a Masters in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering with Industrial Practice.
With no prior work experience and his international student status, he found it difficult to secure a role after multiple rounds of interviews in about 5 to 6 companies. Step helped him through the process by providing motivating words and interview prep sessions. Despite the initial challenges, after three months, Merin secured a role as a Graduate Mechanical Engineer at BorgWarner UK, working in the test department where he tested different types of fuel injectors and fuel pumps. His role involved shadowing and supporting senior engineers by assisting in test preparations.
During his time at BorgWarner, he was able to put theory to practice, applying his understanding of Additive Manufacturing learnt on the Computer Aided Manufacturing module.
Starting an industrial practice role in the engineering field with no prior experience was tough for Merin. He had to prove himself, showing that he could handle the job and be good at it. Merin did not let the challenges hold him back. Instead, he saw them as chances to get better. He worked on things like managing projects, analysing data, interpreting data, and solving problems. Going through this technical experience gave him the confidence to thrive in tough work situations.
“BorgWarner was the perfect place to start my career, my experience met my expectations, and I got what I wanted out of it”
Following his success at BorgWarner, Merin secured a role as a test engineer at Jaguar Land Rover.
Merin’s advice to students- “If you have no experience, along with your masters degree, acquire some additional practical based skills, for example MATLAB and crash courses, to add on to your skills. Improve your CV and LinkedIn profile. This will show employers that even if you do not have any industrial experience that you have additional skills”.
