Meet Carys, an Electrical Engineering Graduate

Location: HM Naval Base Clyde, Faslane, Scotland

Sector/Business unit: Nuclear

My graduate programme, why I chose it, and why I chose Babcock:

My priority when applying to graduate programmes was to join a company that has real-world impact through its work, and where there’s room to grow, learn, and take on responsibility from the get-go. Babcock stood out as the right choice because of the kind of work it does. With large-scale, high-impact projects across various industries, it’s the sort of environment where there’s always something new to learn and where the work genuinely matters.

The graduate programme is well-structured and gives the chance to move across different teams, pick up a wide range of skills, and build a solid foundation for a long-term career.

What also made Babcock appealing was its focus on doing things properly – using robust engineering practices, working to high standards, and supporting future engineers through strong mentoring and development. For anyone interested in systems, sustainability, and solving real world problems, it’s an exciting place to begin a career.

My favourite part of the programme:

One of the best parts of the Electrical Engineering Graduate Programme is the opportunity to experience different areas of the business. Each rotation offers something new, whether it’s working on technical projects, supporting key operations, or contributing to long-term strategic goals.

It’s rewarding to be involved in work that has a real impact across the business, rather than staying in one small area. Being part of projects that most people wouldn’t usually see or be involved in makes the experience even more unique and gives a deeper understanding of how everything fits together.

My work-life balance:

Babcock has been very supportive in helping me maintain a healthy work-life balance, especially given that I live far from my placement location and don’t drive. My team and placement managers have been flexible, allowing me to work from home when needed and use time in lieu to manage travel and personal commitments. This flexibility has meant I can fully engage with the opportunities available without compromising my wellbeing or productivity. It’s reassuring to know that the company understands individual circumstances and is willing to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a positive and balanced working experience.

My development:

I’ve felt well supported in my development from the start. Regular check-ins and meetings with my managers have created a space where I feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance whenever needed. There’s also a strong focus on continuous learning, with regular training sessions that cover both technical skills and professional skills. This combination of approachable leadership and structured development opportunities has helped me build confidence, grow my skillset, and make the most of my placements so far.

There’s clear support for pursuing chartership, with guidance on how to meet required competencies and opportunities to gain the experience needed, all supported by my mentor.