Project Management Graduate Programme
Location: Bristol
Sector/Business unit: Cavendish Nuclear
My graduate programme, why I chose it and why I chose Babcock:
A year ago, I was working three jobs, six days a week, and taking care of my family. I graduated with a Master’s degree in 2018, and between work, lockdown, and starting a family, I was juggling a lot! I reached a point where I needed one job that could fit around my home life and offer a strong career path. Knowing friends and family who have worked at Babcock for many years sparked my interest, so I decided to check out the Early Careers website.
My background is in directing, choreographing, teaching, and managing operations in the performing arts industry, along with retail and customer service. I also have experience running small teams and managing projects. When I looked at the Project Management programme, I saw many similarities to my previous jobs, even though it’s in a different industry. I wanted to apply and see if I could bring a creative approach to this field. Babcock values people from all kinds of backgrounds, which was clear during the interview process. They love collaborating and finding new ways to work, no matter your education or past jobs. This made me feel very supported and showed that a career change is possible with this programme!
My favourite part of the programme:
My favourite part of the programme is being able to move around different parts of the business. The programme I’m on allows me to work in different areas for six months at a time. This is a great chance for someone like me who wants to explore the business and learn more about what Babcock does. It also allows for travel to different sites when needed, so I’ve been able to fully experience the daily work and be part of delivering projects.
My most rewarding project/experience:
The programme has let me take part in various extra-curricular activities and opportunities within my placements. Babcock has many networks you can join, and I’ve become part of a few, like the Pride Network and the Young Professionals Network.
I’ve always been passionate about health and wellbeing and when I joined Babcock, I was pleasantly surprised by how much they were already doing in this space. Babcock has Health & Wellbeing Network, and I was introduced to a team member right at the start. I knew I wanted to get involved, and now I’m one of the graduate team leads. We organise health and wellbeing socials, coffee talks, weekly communications to the graduate cohort, and offer support to anyone who needs it. Through this team, I’ve completed my Wellbeing Champion training and will soon take my Mental Health First Aid Training.
My work-life balance:
Babcock has been brilliant in supporting my work-life balance. Due to my personal circumstances, I’m unable to relocate as frequently as some others in my cohort. Open communication about my needs has proven crucial, and I’ve always found flexible solutions available. Agile working has been incredibly beneficial, enabling me to manage school pick-ups and drop-offs more easily, reducing home-life stress.
My development:
Professional development has been a strong focus throughout my programme. In Project Management, you can join the APM (Association for Project Management) and complete your PFQ (Project Fundamentals Qualification) within the first few months, and your PMQ (Project Management Qualification) later in the programme. These industry-recognised qualifications support your path to chartership if you wish to pursue it.
On a personal level, we are assigned a mentor at the start of the programme who supports your career path and guides you in the right direction. It’s helpful to have someone in the business who can offer an outside perspective. We also have a buddy, a graduate from the year above, who provides a more relatable perspective and helps you find your footing at the start. These initial contacts help you to have meaningful conversations about your career goals and start your development early.
Learn more about our Project Management Graduate Programme and apply online
