Nurturing Future Engineering Talent: My Apprenticeship Experience at Blackhall Engineering

Leo Foulds shares his reflections on a six-month industrial placement at Blackhall Engineering Limited, highlighting the valuable opportunities and experiences gained during his apprenticeship

As part of the integrated Master of Engineering (MEng) programme, I had the privilege of undertaking a six-month industrial placement at Blackhall Engineering Limited. This invaluable experience marked a significant phase in my academic and professional journey, providing a platform to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world context.

Month One: Diving into a New Environment

Upon my arrival at Blackhall Engineering, I was met with a warm reception from the entire team, which set a positive tone for the months to follow. The initial period involved a steep learning curve, as I was introduced to the company’s operations, projects, and core values. Despite the intensity, I found myself highly engaged and eager to contribute meaningfully to the organisation.

Diverse Projects and Hands-On Experience

Carbon Footprint Analysis

One of the first major tasks I was assigned involved analysing the carbon footprint associated with valve production. This project intersected mechanical engineering principles with environmental considerations, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Valve Design

In addition to environmental analysis, I delved into the technical realm of valve design. This aspect of my placement allowed me to apply core mechanical engineering concepts, such as fluid dynamics and materials science, to real-world applications.

Branding and Marketing Strategies

Beyond technical projects, I had the opportunity to explore the business side of engineering. Engaging with the marketing team, I participated in developing strategies to highlight Blackhall Engineering’s brand and product offerings.

Integration of Sensors onto Valves

As innovation is at the heart of Blackhall Engineering, I was involved in an exciting project centred around integrating sensors into valve systems. This allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the latest advancements in sensor technology and smart engineering.

Personal Growth and Professional Development

Throughout my placement, I was supported by a team of experienced professionals who were always willing to share their knowledge and expertise. Their mentorship and guidance were instrumental in my development, creating a deeper understanding of industrial practices and engineering principles.

Gratitude and Future Prospects

Last Friday marked the completion of my six-month tenure at Blackhall Engineering Limited. Reflecting on this period, I am immensely grateful to everyone at the company for their unwavering support and encouragement. The skills and experiences I have gained are invaluable, and I am confident they will serve as a solid foundation for my future career.

"Leo is a very talented young Engineer. It has been a pleasure working with him and he will be an asset to any company he will go on to work for or maybe even set up and run one himself. Who knows?" - Dean Wheatley, Director of Business Development, Blackhall Engineering

This endorsement encapsulates the positive relationships and professional growth Leo experienced during his placement.