Ashwin Jose
My Graduate Story
My name is Ashwin Jose, and I completed a MSc in Structural Engineering at the University of Birmingham.
I work as a Graduate Structural Engineer at Pell Frischmann. In my role, I am responsible for designing steel and concrete structures, conducting assessment calculations for bridges, and participating in bridge inspections.
I primarily use tools such as MIDAS Civil and Tekla Tedds for modeling and calculations. Additionally, as part of my graduate development, I attend mandatory training to continuously improve my skills and knowledge in the field.
A Day in my Life
A typical day in my job includes working on structural designs and assessments, particularly focusing on bridges. I spend time conducting calculations, analyzing data, and creating models to ensure the structures I work on meet safety and design standards. My role also involves collaborating with senior engineers and participating in site inspections to gain practical experience in evaluating and inspecting bridges.
My Journey to Pell Frischmann
I applied for my role at Pell Frischmann through LinkedIn, which was an invaluable platform for connecting with companies and discovering job openings. The selection process included both online and in-person interviews. While I was completing my MSc in Structural Engineering, I took the time to learn more about the industry and the job application process, which ultimately helped me secure this role after graduation.
My Birmingham Experience
The MSc in Structural Engineering course at the University of Birmingham was structured to meet industry standards, and I was able to engage with industry experts throughout the program. This direct exposure significantly enhanced my understanding of how academic concepts translate into real-world applications. The course also allowed me to work on projects that mimicked the challenges I would face in my career, giving me a practical edge when entering the workforce.
The University Career Network was also a great resource during my studies. They helped me prepare my CV and LinkedIn profile and shared job openings, which were crucial in securing my position at Pell Frischmann.
Birmingham's Impact
Looking back, my course provided me with a robust foundation in both theory and practical application. One of my biggest achievements was securing my job with sponsorship before I even graduated, which was made possible thanks to the support and resources offered by the university.
My Achievements
Obtaining the job with sponsorship during the course time itself was the biggest achievement.
Advice for Students
My advice to students is to focus on applying to the right jobs—make sure your skill set aligns with the job requirements. It's also important to expand your network, both on LinkedIn and through university events, as this can open many doors in your career. Take time to learn from industry professionals and keep building your connections.