Successful engagement for the students on the programme
We welcomed individuals from the University Technical College Norfolk (UTCN) to our facilities for our work experience programme. We are always looking to contribute to the development of technical skills and the interests of young people within our local area and working with UTCN enables us to provide this opportunity.
The programme began with an induction into health and electrical safety, preparing the students for their journey to begin with us. A demonstration video introduced them to what they would experience during the programme and was accompanied by a user requirement specification, so they could familiarise themselves with what they would be designing during their placement.
Working under the supervision and guidance of our lead test and validation engineer, they completed the design, manufacturing and testing of a railway crossing simulator using Siemens S7-1200 PLCs and TIA portal. The programme took them through the process involved in achieving a successful working prototype.
Following our internal processes, we highlighted the steps they would need to take in order to complete the design of electrical schematics and the input and output schedule. This led to them wiring the panel to their design and undertaking electrical testing by utilising our internal testing regime. They also designed and wrote ladder logic software to control their prototype of the railway crossing simulator.
Our CAD team supported with finalising as-built drawings and our project management team gave them a flavour of how all parts of the project fitted together.
Adelle Moore from UTCN visited the students during the programme to see their progression and was pleased and impressed with the programme activities and the students’ engagement.
Over the two-week placement, we noticed how the students grew in confidence and ability, by completing all the programme successfully. Well done to all of those involved; we wish them all the best for their future engineering careers.