Alan Ford: Roke Manor Research graduate
EMPLOYER Roke Manor Research
UNIVERSITY MEng computer science, University of Southampton
I wanted to work in a commercial environment and continue with my main interests: communications and networking technology. During my degree I gained a reasonable amount of work experience, including research in an academic environment and working on systems and networks within internet companies. This experience helped me get my job and settle in quickly.
My job
When I started, I joined a team of experienced engineers working on mobile phone evolution. We had a brief to investigate ways to cut costs in mobile network infrastructure – in particular, how to deploy affordable, cutting-edge broadband-speed mobile technology for both operators and users. I used a range of skills, including system architecture research and design, and pure software engineering. As the project grew, teams from other countries joined in. I travelled regularly to Germany to build and maintain a test bed and, later on, to demonstrate the system to customers. I have been involved in other projects since, and now I’m moving into a technical lead role, guiding a team that’s developing new communications technologies. The graduate development programme provided training through my first two years. I developed skills in communication, presentation and meeting customers, which complemented my engineering skills.
My work environment
I work in Romsey, near Southampton. My office is located in large, landscaped grounds that provide a peaceful escape during the day. I work 9.30 am to 6.00 pm most days. Some projects involve secondments to different sites or travel within the UK or abroad. My projects have taken me to Berlin, Prague and Portugal.
My first year in engineering
I enjoy the variety of work and applying my skills in a dynamic, cutting-edge research environment. I’ve also enjoyed meeting a range of people, including customers and suppliers. A highlight of my first year was travelling to Germany in December and going to the Christmas markets in the evenings.
