I graduated with a Physics degree from Imperial College, London in 2000. Having worked as a secondary school physics teacher until 2005, I was ready for a more industrial, hands-on opportunity.

So, when I saw the British Energy graduate scheme I knew that it was for me. I was keen to build on my existing knowledge of reactor physics, but I also wanted to develop my engineering skills and business acumen. I liked the fact that the scheme would enable me to explore all aspects of the Company, supported by strategic training.

I spent my first year at Heysham 2 power station, where I learned about the plant by shadowing engineers and technicians, and from the technical courses. I also worked on projects that required me to find out about Company and industry procedures and processes. More recently, I have travelled to other British Energy stations to get involved in outage work, and am now completing my final attachment. The scheme is very flexible, and supports you taking your career path into new directions, which I saw as a real advantage in helping me decide on a final role within British Energy.

The Graduate lifestyle is challenging, but it is rewarding, and the opportunities available to you are fantastic. Training courses are provided for graduates to enhance their technical and business awareness. At the courses, we are often addressed by senior Company employees and are given the opportunity to discuss ideas and issues with them a unique privilege considering that we are relatively new to British Energy. The Company also funds graduate attendance at numerous external nuclear industry seminars and courses. Through the sharing of experience and knowledge between the graduates and departments I’ve worked with so far, I’ve built up a large network of contacts, at all levels, and throughout the industry.

The scheme is also a great chance to meet new people and take advantage of the social life that comes with it. Once you arrive at a site, there is an established group of recent graduates who organise regular social events. So, when you move to a different location, there are always people waiting to welcome you.