So, what's involved on the Central Networks Engineering scheme?

We have the opportunity to complete five engineering-specific placements across the business and another one of our choice that can be anywhere within E.ON UK. So far my placements have been varied and have involved both field and office-based activities.

Tell us about your first placement.

I started with a five-month stint in the delivery centres, shadowing my colleagues on the network and learning about E.ON's assets. After that I worked on a series of office-based projects, all of which helped to improve my overall knowledge of the company.

So, what are you doing at the moment?

I'm working with the Health, Safety and Environment Team. My main task is to help with the forthcoming Rule One Safety Day that all E.ON employees take part in. It's an annual event designed to communicate the importance of safety at work – E.ON's number one priority.

What are your major challenges?

The main one is producing detailed plans that keep everybody focused on their task. Motivating yourself is very different to motivating other people, especially when you are new to the company and the situation. Help is always at hand though. I overcome challenges by combining project-management techniques I've learnt at E.ON UK training courses with the support of my line manager.

What skills do you need to do your job well?

Good communication skills and self-motivation. You meet so many people within the business that it's crucial to have the drive and social skills to be able to hold your own.

Have there been any hairy moments during the placement scheme?

The trickiest project I've been involved in was the repair and restoration of a 132kV cable. Following an investigation by a civil engineer, the tower struts that connected the cable were found to have moved considerably, so various works were carried out to secure the tower.

But these were all brought to a halt when the 132kV cable at the base failed, blowing a hole in the cable sheathing. All stops were pulled out to ensure that the cable was restored as quickly as possible, with jointers working around the clock.

How would you describe the Central Networks culture?

Engineering-driven and constantly looking to improve and evolve wherever possible. Due to the implications of being a regulated company, accountability and detail are key within all areas of the business.

Where next for you?

At Central Networks we benefit from an extended development scheme in addition to our 18-month graduate programme. Over the next four years the scheme will offer two further placements. The first is a guaranteed field-based placement at one of our seven delivery centres across the East and West Midlands, the second is mutually agreed between myself and E.ON.

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