Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme
Location: Various
Sector/Business unit: Land and Mission Systems
My graduate programme, why I chose it, and why I chose Babcock:
I chose the mechanical engineering graduate programme because of its rotational structure. This flexibility was a major draw, as it gives me the chance to explore different areas of the business and discover where my strengths and interests truly lie. I was also impressed by the company’s commitment to professional development, particularly its support for Chartership and ongoing learning opportunities.
Inclusivity was another key factor in my decision. As someone who is neurodivergent, I’ve found the company to be genuinely supportive – viewing neurodiversity as a strength rather than a limitation. That mindset has made a real difference to my experience, and I’ve felt welcomed and understood from day one.
The breadth of the company’s operations means there’s always something new to get involved in. Whether it’s working on cutting-edge projects or engaging with outreach initiatives, no two days are the same. I wanted to be part of an organisation where I could grow both professionally and personally, and this programme has offered exactly that.
My favourite part of the programme:
The rotational aspect of the programme is definitely my favourite part. It’s given me the chance to work across different teams and disciplines, gaining exposure to a wide range of projects and engineering challenges. This variety keeps things fresh and helps me build a well-rounded skill set.
Beyond my core role, I’ve had the opportunity to get involved in outreach and engagement activities, such as university visits and STEM initiatives. One highlight was attending Formula Student events, where I connected with students and shared insights about careers in engineering. These experiences have helped me develop confidence, communication skills, and a sense of purpose beyond the technical work.
My most rewarding project/experience:
One of the most rewarding experiences was participating in a Women in STEM panel at my former university. It was incredibly fulfilling to share my journey and speak about how the industry is evolving to become more inclusive and diverse. Hearing from other panellists and engaging with students reminded me of how far we’ve come – and how much further we can go.
Another standout experience was working hands-on with a project investigating alternative processes for vehicle safety testing. It was exciting to contribute to something so impactful, and I gained valuable insight into innovation and problem-solving in real-world scenarios.
My work-life balance:
Work-life balance is something I’ve been able to manage really well thanks to the hybrid working model. I have control over my diary and can tailor my schedule to suit my working style. For example, I often spread my hours across the week so I can finish early on Fridays, which gives me more time to recharge or pursue personal interests.
There’s also a strong social element to the graduate programme. With many grads across the business, there are regular social events – both within our teams and across the wider cohort. These events are a great way to build friendships and unwind outside of work. That said, the volume and variety of events can vary depending on location, as some sites have smaller graduate communities. Even so, there’s always an effort to foster connection and inclusion, no matter where you’re based.
My development:
From the start, I’ve felt well-supported in my development. I was assigned both a line manager and a mentor – each playing a distinct role in helping me grow. My mentor focuses on broader development goals beyond just Chartership competencies, helping me set meaningful objectives and navigate my career path.
I was also paired with a buddy when I joined, which made the onboarding process much smoother. Having someone to reach out to with day-to-day questions or concerns was incredibly helpful, especially in those early weeks.
Learn more about our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme and apply online.
