Sarah, tell us about the scheme you are currently on.

I have spent my main placement in the Fuel Technology Team at Technology and Innovation. This scheme consists of one main placement of 18 months, with the opportunity to spend 3 months on secondment to another part of the business.

What attracted you to E.ON when you graduated?

I found E.ON's approach to technical graduates very refreshing. E.ON took a different approach from other potential employers. In addition to developing my technical ability they were keen to broaden my outlook in other areas and give me the opportunity to see how other business areas function.

Explain what you do on a day to day basis?

My current role exposes me to all parts of the scientific process. For instance when we take a sample from a Power Station I get involved in the analysis, interpretation and delivery of the results to the customer. I'm also involved in an R+D project where my responsibilities include managing the budget, resources and ensuring the project is delivered on time.

What are the most challenging opportunities of the role?

To challenge the way things have always been done, to suggest improvements and to take on the responsibility of implementing these ideas.

Are you currently working on anything particularly interesting?

Yes, my current assignment is to develop a suite of tests that will help us to determine the suitability of coals in the future for our UK Power Stations. This analysis will be used by the Fuel Trading Team when they are formulating their strategy for buying coal. It's really exciting to think that the work I'm doing on a day to day basis can take a part in determining the fuel that E.ON buys in the future.

What skills help you succeed in your job?

It is important to be well organised and have good communication and time management skills.

What's E.ON like as a place to work?

The culture here is very open and friendly. At Technology we work flexitime and have a smart casual dress code. My colleagues are always happy to help and there's a really good team spirit.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

There are still lots of things I want to accomplish while I'm on the graduate scheme and I'm looking forward to broadening my outlook while on secondment with another part of the business. Looking ahead I'd like to gain some more operational experience to develop my technical expertise and hopefully add value to the E.ON Group through the technical work that I do.

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