From student halls to designing halls with JMS degree placements

At JMS we always have our eye on the future, and where possible, we like to do our bit to shape it for the better. So when we get the opportunity to take on engineering degree students for their work placements, we take them through their paces, embed them in our projects, and show them what really goes on at a busy engineering consultancy…

Ben Kidner is currently studying for his MEng Civil Engineering at Loughborough University. He distinguished himself in his first year by getting the highest grade in his structural mechanic’s exam, so naturally when he applied to complete a year of work experience at JMS, our ears pricked up.

“As a business, we have always encouraged young talent,” says MD Daniel Staines. “And we are not afraid to challenge them. So whilst we are delighted to bring Ben on board, we also intend to put him through his paces and show him what it takes to be a civil and structural engineer. After all, it is vital that the next generation of engineers have a good, practical understanding of what is involved in this industry beyond what they can learn in the classroom environment.”

A top-class work placement

“Though I have learned so much since starting my degree, the past few months at JMS have really been a crash course in the practical side of working as a structural engineer. In fact, I feel like I have learned even more at JMS so far than in my first year at university. But please don’t tell my course tutor that!” Ben jokes.

One of the things that has surprised Ben is how JMS have encouraged him to take on responsibilities and grow into his role.

“I like that JMS has treated me like they would anyone else who is starting with the company. I have taken on project responsibilities, learned tasks, and because JMS have a client-based approach to everything they do, I have gained valuable confidence in speaking to people from all kinds of professions and industries. And believe it or not, quite a few people have assumed that I am a permanent member of staff, rather than a placement student. That has been great for my confidence, and testament to the dedication JMS has to giving me a genuine and useful experience.”

“Having spoken to friends on placements with bigger companies, I don’t think they are getting the kind of variety and responsibility I have so far enjoyed. I am very lucky that JMS agreed to take me on, and I hope that one day I may work in one of their regional offices permanently. Either way, this experience has showed me so much about the industry, and really given me direction for where I feel my future may lay.”

JMS support student placements and apprenticeship schemes, in fact we are always looking for new ways to nurture and develop the next generation of engineering talent. Visit the JMS careers page to find out more.