Stephen Shaw Case Study

My main responsibilities include reviewing designs and helping create tenders, providing project management advice, and reviewing design and construction activities. I also ensure the design and construction elements of relevant projects meet requirements of legislation, arrange audits and manage environmental aspects in accordance with relevant policy.

Find your career

What path did you take to get here?

After undertaking an electrical apprenticeship, I started at Volker Rail in 2014 as an electrician, becoming a supervisor in 2015. Making my interest in engineering known, my line manager enrolled me on an electrical and electronic HNC, which upon completion allowed me to enrol on an engineering degree. In 2019 I was promoted to project engineer.

What’s your favourite part of your job?

I enjoy the problem solving aspects of my role. I like finding solutions to issues that make a project more efficient.

What skills do you need to succeed in you role?

A knowledge of electrical systems, a methodological way of thinking, and a hard-working attitude.

What advice would you give to someone considering a career in project engineering?

Ask yourself if electrical engineering interest you. It’s always important to have a career in an area you enjoy. If the answer is yes, my advice would be to undertake an electrical apprenticeship, and then you can earn whilst you learn and develop a career.

Get in touch

If you have any questions about this or any other career within the rail industry, please get in touch with us and a member of our team will be more than happy to anser any questions you might have!