Mayank Sewatkar's Industrial Placement Year at Jaguar Land Rover
In this post, Mayank shares his insights on why he chose to apply for a year in industry, what his typical day was like at Jaguar Land Rover, and the valuable skills and experiences he gained.
Why did you decide to apply for an Industrial Placement Year? What was your motivation?
I decided to apply for an Industrial Placement Year to gain practical, hands-on experience in the industry. My motivation stemmed from a desire to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, and to develop a deeper understanding of how cutting-edge technologies are developed and implemented in a leading automotive company. I aimed to enhance my technical skills, collaborate with industry experts, and contribute to innovative projects, all of which I believed would significantly enrich my educational journey and career prospects including acquiring a sponsored graduate position as an engineer at the same company.
What is your typical day like at Jaguar Land Rover?
A typical day at Jaguar Land Rover is dynamic and engaging. My day often begins with a daily scrum Agile meeting to discuss project updates and set daily goals. After the meeting, I grab a coffee with my co-workers and I then delve into various tasks depending on the project phase, such as conducting simulations, analysing data, or collaborating with colleagues from different departments. My tasks vary throughout the day—sometimes I'm hands-on with the car, and other times I'm glued to my desk. For instance, I might spend the later halves of the day in the testing facilities at the engineering plant and collect data on different cars. Regular interactions with mentors and team members ensure continuous learning and knowledge sharing, making each day a blend of technical challenges and collaborative problem-solving.
What did you learn from this experience?
This experience has been incredibly enriching. Technically, I honed my skills in Modelling and Simulation, Model Based Systems Engineering, and Data Analysis, along with gaining proficiency in various software tools. I also developed essential soft skills like Collaboration, Communication, and Adaptability. Working across different departments provided me with a holistic understanding of the automotive industry's complexities and interdependencies. Additionally, I learned the importance of innovative thinking and continuous improvement in driving technological advancements. The mentorship and support from experienced professionals have been invaluable in shaping my career trajectory and boosting my confidence in tackling complex engineering challenges.
What was the achievement of your Industrial Placement Year?
I became a DBS certified STEM Ambassador, ensuring I met the necessary safety standards for working with young people. My dedication to these activities was acknowledged by Jaguar Land Rover's Code of Conduct team, who recognized the positive impact I made in fostering growth within the company by promoting STEM education and unity through collaborative outreach programs. This recognition further solidified my commitment to these initiatives and was a significant achievement during my time at Jaguar Land Rover. I was also recognised as the Early Careers Ambassador of the Year at Jaguar Land Rover. These accomplishments, coupled with the opportunity to work on advanced automotive technologies, have been the most fulfilling aspects of my placement at Jaguar Land Rover.