Meet Sinead, a Graduate Mechanical Engineer

What drew you to work at AECOM originally? What would that be now – has it changed?

Originally, how global and diverse AECOM is attracted me to apply! However, from being with the company a few months I’ve noticed a lot of emphasis on career paths which I value! Due to the nature and size of the business there are opportunities at all ends. AECOM reiterates the importance that there is no direct route for success and where your job can take you!

What is your role at AECOM?

I am a graduate engineer who assists the engineers in designing energy efficient systems in the built environment. Using IESVE software to complete a Part L assessment of buildings and using Revit for preliminary design of buildings.

How long have you worked for AECOM?

10 months although I completed my placement in the Belfast office during COVID for 8 months.

What do you like most about working for AECOM?

Freedom to grow is defiantly one of them! Also, that no one project I have worked on is the same- each day is different.

How has AECOM helped you in your career development?

AECOM focuses on career development very early on in the GDP. Several CPDs inhouse and external are always arranged weekly to keep us up to date with the latest technology. So far I have been assigned a mentor and have started my chartership route. I have also got the opportunity to attend Schneider Electric inhouse Graduate 10-day intense programme over in the UK at their Leeds & Coventry offices. AECOM also has a YEN (Young Engineers Network) where you can meet & support likeminded individuals from your industry all over the UK&I offices. They also run events twice a year showcasing site/office visits within AECOM UK&I.

How do you use AECOM’s ‘Freedom to Grow’ to give you a good work/life balance?

Yes, it is one of the main perks within AECOM! I use it by starting earlier and finishing earlier or for instance sometimes I work later in the evenings to finish earlier on a Friday just depends what I have on.

How do you find hybrid working works for you – what benefits do you get from office working, site working, and home working?

So far, I love it, I couldn’t imagine being in the office 5 days a week! Our team has one set day a week that we are all in. Sometimes more days depending on the project you’re working on.