Amardeep Singh

Graduate Project Manager, Stantec

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day. 

I am currently working as a Graduate Project Manager at Stantec in Birmingham. On a typical day, I support the planning and delivery of water utilities and environmental projects. This includes understanding client and project requirements, monitoring project progress, assisting with forecasting and budgeting, coordinating with designers and stakeholders, and contributing to bids and proposals. I am also involved in improving processes and standardising practices to drive efficiency across teams.

What were the best things about your course? 

The best aspects of my MSc Advanced Mechanical Engineering course were its strong industry relevance, the wide range of optional modules, and the diversity of students. The course combined core engineering principles with exposure to real-world challenges, research-led teaching, and opportunities to work on consultancy-style projects with industry partners.

How do you feel your degree helped you get a job after graduation?

My degree played a crucial role in helping me secure my graduate role. It strengthened my technical foundation, improved my problem-solving and analytical skills, and exposed me to project-based work that closely mirrored industry environments. The University’s strong links with employers and careers support also significantly improved my employability.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

The skills I use most include project planning, analytical thinking, communication, stakeholder management, teamwork, and presenting technical information clearly to non-technical audiences. Consultancy challenges and group projects during my degree directly prepared me for the collaborative nature of project management.

What are your top tips for securing a job in the United Kingdom or your home country?

My top tips are to gain practical experience through internships, placements, or extracurricular projects, actively use university careers services, build a strong LinkedIn profile, and network with professionals. Tailoring applications to each role and developing strong interview and communication skills are also essential.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham? Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree? 

Since graduating, I have started my career as a Graduate Project Manager at Stantec. Alongside my degree, I continue to develop professionally through on-the-job training, mentoring, and engagement with professional bodies such as the Association for Project Management. Continuous learning has been an important part of my early career development.

What advice would you give to current and prospective students looking to work in your sector?

I would advise students to gain exposure to real projects as early as possible, understand how technical knowledge is applied in practice, and build strong communication skills. Getting involved in industry-led challenges and professional networking is key for entering the project management and engineering sectors.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme? 

Make the most of group projects, optional modules, and opportunities beyond the curriculum. Engage with lecturers, ask questions, and seek feedback. The more proactive you are, the more you will gain from the course.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market? 

I strongly recommend getting involved in consultancy challenges, internships, student representation, ambassador roles, and professional development awards. These experiences help develop transferable skills and demonstrate real-world capability to employers.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University, for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so, what impact did they have on you?

Yes, I actively used the Careers Network and professional development support. They helped me refine my CV, improve interview skills, understand the graduate market, and build confidence. These services had a significant positive impact on my employability and career direction.

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham? 

My fondest memories include representing the School of Engineering, leading staff-student forums, taking part in consultancy challenges, and speaking at high-profile university events. I would highly recommend Birmingham for its strong community, excellent facilities, and outstanding support for students. Most significantly my speech at my graduation!

What were your favourite things about Birmingham the city? How did it compare to your expectations?

I enjoyed Birmingham’s diversity, cultural scene, and professional opportunities. It exceeded my expectations as a vibrant city with a strong sense of community and excellent career prospects for graduates.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student? 

I was involved as a Student Ambassador, Senior Course Representative, School of Engineering Representative, and participated in consultancy and industry challenges. I was also involved in engineering team projects and professional development programmes.

Please tell us about your experience studying and living away from home.

Studying from home was a valuable and character-building experience. It helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident while developing strong friendships and professional networks.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I applied to Birmingham due to its strong academic reputation, excellent employability outcomes, world-class campus, and the opportunities it offers for professional development and industry engagement.