What have your first years as Graduate Engineers been like at Eadon?

Joshua: It’s been a great experience. During the interview process, I got the sense that Eadon had a supportive, friendly environment, and that’s exactly what I’ve found. Everyone’s really encouraging, and I’ve had the chance to work on a variety of projects that have allowed me to use my creativity – something I didn’t expect to happen so early on in my career.

Harry: I’d have to agree. I was pleasantly surprised by how helpful everyone is. In past experiences, I sometimes felt people weren’t always willing to help, but here it’s different. If someone doesn’t have time to assist immediately, they’ll find time later. That’s really helped me get up to speed with how we approach different projects. Plus, the variety of projects keeps things fresh. Working across industries means each project feels new, which definitely speeds up learning and development.

What were your expectations before joining Eadon, and how did the reality match up?

Harry: Before starting, I thought I’d be doing more controlled, sandbox-style tasks – where everything was closely managed and guided. But that wasn’t the case at all. We’re given real responsibilities, and we’re left to figure things out and learn from our mistakes. It sounds daunting, but actually, I think it’s the best way to learn.

Josh: I expected more personalised development from a smaller company like Eadon, and they’ve exceeded that expectation – they invest in you from day one.

What was the transition from student life to working full-time like for you?

Josh: I thought working a 9 to 5 might be a challenge after university, but the projects here have been so interesting that I find it motivating. I don’t feel too stressed or too tired because it’s fun!

Harry: For me, the transition hasn’t been too much of a shock. In my final year at uni, I already tried to work to a 9 to 5 schedule so I could keep my weekends free. I’d also done a placement year, so I had some idea of what full-time work would be like. The hybrid work option here has been really useful; not having to commute every day is good for balance.

Can you share a bit about a key project you’ve worked on?

Josh: One of the main projects I’ve been on is part of Sellafield’s Enabling Innovation Framework. It’s a complex project that’s been going on for over a year and still has a long way to go. We’re handling the deconstruction of two facilities and coming up with creative solutions for everything from lifting strategies to containment measures, since there are hazardous materials involved. I’m part of the studies team, and it’s a collaborative effort. Even as a graduate, I feel like a valued member of the team, which has made it really rewarding.

Harry: I’ve spent the past few months on a project for a nuclear client. It’s a design job where we’re creating storage solutions for components, which have to meet specific environmental requirements. My role has been in the design team, and we’ve worked through multiple stages to make sure everything meets the client’s requirements. I also did a complex calculation review for a gantry used in a nuclear power station. That project was challenging, but it forced me to understand the standards more deeply – I was especially proud of that one.

What are some skills you’ve developed in your first year at Eadon?

Harry: I’d say using industry standards has been a big one. At university, we did touch on them in a limited way, but here, they’re fundamental to everything we do. I’ve really had to get familiar with those processes.

Josh: Same here, plus I’ve deepened my skills in finite element analysis (FEA.) Soft skills have also been crucial, like learning to write concise, effective emails and communicate with clients.

What kind of support have you received?

Harry: We have regular chats with our mentors once or twice a month where we talk about recent projects, our progress, and areas where we could develop further. They also help us set goals and make sure we’re not overwhelmed or stretched too thin.

Josh: My mentor Adam has been really attentive and he’s really good at asking probing questions and helping me reflect on my progress. I’ve been working on a project with two particular Engineers since January and I’m constantly getting feedback and encouragement from them too.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced this year, and how did you overcome them?

Harry: For me, one of the main challenges has been asking the right questions. You need to make sure you’ve considered things the client might not have thought of, but that they might pick up on later which could cause frustration. It’s a skill to know what to ask and highlight the right things.

Josh: I’d agree with that. You learn to balance asking questions with providing solutions, which keeps things on track.

What advice would you give to anyone just starting out their career in Engineering?

Harry: I’d suggest trying to join a smaller company like Eadon, where you’ll receive more attention and support from those around you. In a smaller company, you’re often challenged more than in a larger one because there are fewer people, so you need to get stuck in right from the get-go. That might sound daunting, but it’s the best way to learn. Don’t worry about people judging you or doing something wrong. You will make mistakes but you need to make mistakes to learn.

Josh: The most important advice I can give is not to be too worried about saying the wrong thing or getting every detail perfect. What really matters is an enthusiasm for engineering, having the right attitude, and being someone others can work with on a personal level.