Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme
Location: Devonport, Plymouth
Sector/Business unit: Marine
My graduate programme, why I chose it, and why I chose Babcock:
I’ve always wanted to work on complex engineering projects that would challenge me technically while contributing to something meaningful.
The defence sector stood out in that respect, as it offers the opportunity to support national security while working on some of the most advanced and technically demanding systems in the UK, such as submarines and warships. Being able to learn from and contribute to projects like these early in my career is incredibly motivating.
Another reason I chose Babcock was its clear commitment to supporting professional development, particularly through its graduate programme. From an early stage, my goal has been to become a Chartered Engineer. It is something I have always viewed as a significant milestone and a mark of engineering excellence. Babcock’s structured support, mentoring, and focus on helping graduates work towards chartership really stood out to me. It feels like an organisation where that ambition is understood and actively encouraged, making it an ideal environment in which to grow, develop, and achieve my long-term career goals.
My favourite part of the programme:
What has stood out most to me is the variety that comes from moving between different placements and teams. Having completed a year in industry, a summer internship, and now the graduate programme, I have experienced a range of placements, and this has been one of the most valuable aspects of my development. The rotations have given me the opportunity to work on different projects, systems, and types of vessels, while also exposing me to a variety of areas such as design, production, and project management. This variety keeps the work interesting and gives you a much broader understanding of how engineering comes together in practice.
It has also been incredibly useful from a career perspective. Engineering is such a wide field, and the rotations allow you to explore different roles and discover what you genuinely enjoy. For me, that has been a huge benefit, as it has helped shape my interests and given me a clearer idea of the direction I want to take in my career.
My most rewarding project/experience:
Working on the Miecznik Frigate programme as an Auxiliary Systems Design Engineer has been the most rewarding experience for me so far. It gave me the opportunity to get involved in real technical detail and apply much of the knowledge I developed during my degree. Seeing the vessels now being built in Poland makes the work feel even more special.
The project also gave me the chance to take on responsibility, travel, and collaborate with an international consortium, which helped me grow both technically and professionally. I enjoyed the work so much that I chose to return to the department in my substantive role.
My work-life balance:
The flexible and agile working arrangements that Babcock offers across most graduate placements really support a healthy work-life balance. Being able to adjust working hours and, where appropriate, work from home makes it easier to manage both work and personal commitments. This helps to reduce stress and maintain productivity.
There is also a strong, supportive culture where wellbeing is genuinely valued. Managers are approachable and encourage a balanced workload, helping employees stay engaged at work while still having time to relax and enjoy life outside of engineering.
My development:
From my year in industry through to the graduate programme, I’ve had access to a strong support network that has helped me build my skills, confidence and experience as an engineer.
During my undergraduate year in industry, I was given the guidance and opportunities needed to develop the skills and competencies required to become professionally registered as an Engineering Technician. The support I received during that time helped build a strong foundation for the start of my career.
Since joining the graduate programme, that support has continued through structured placement rotations, and regular guidance from placement managers and mentors. There is a real focus on developing graduates, with experienced engineers providing advice and encouragement throughout each placement. This has allowed me to continue progressing towards chartership while gaining a broad range of experience and developing both my technical and professional skills.
Learn more about our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme and apply online.
