Ben Green – Composite
Engineer
MEng Aerospace Engineering
The team I work within at Gurit is responsible
for the identification of new and innovative
products both from the point-of-view of improving
existing products, and also to bring new products
into the company by researching current developments
within academia.
My route into the company was slightly different
compared to other people on the graduate scheme
because I applied to Gurit whilst I was still
working on my PhD at Bristol University, with
sponsorship from an Aerospace company. I suppose
I’ve always had a life-long interest in
aircraft and cars, all things fast-moving really,
so choosing to study engineering was a logical
path to take. I also enjoy solving problems
so the job I’m in now is ideal; it satisfies
my interest in composite materials and their
applications, and the fast-pace of a cutting-edge
industry suits me.
When I began looking for employment I specifically
researched composite companies and chose to
apply to Gurit as their reputation seemed impressive;
quite advanced and a leader in its field. During
the recruitment process everyone was friendly,
and upon visiting the St.Cross site, it became
clear that the company was a nice size with
a good ambiance. I explained my PhD circumstances
and was extremely pleased when offered a position
that allowed me to join Gurit on a part-time
basis for the first six months whilst writing
up my thesis, then becoming full-time after.
Splitting my time between the Isle of Wight
and Bristol wasn’t always easy, so I chose
to base myself in Southampton, but as part of
my offer ferry travel was paid for by the company
too, which has been a massive help.
In all honesty, settling in to the Gurit way
of life took a bit of adjusting to. The management
style was different from what I was used to,
a demanding one that places the onus on the
individuals to deliver. I soon realised that
if I was going to get anywhere in the company
I had to take the initiative myself. The free
reign did take some getting used to, but now
I thoroughly enjoy the level of freedom and
trust that has been placed upon me, and it has
helped to increase my confidence too.
On the whole, Gurit is a great company to work
for. It’s a very sociable organisation
and I have found a lot of people here with similar
interests to my own, which made it easier to
fit in. You need to be pro-active to survive,
but so long as you’re prepared to work
hard to make things happen and take the initiative,
it can be both fun and rewarding. |
