Schemes for GCSE and A-level Students

The Year in Industry: Short Case Studies

Year in Industry student working at Turner Powertrain Systems

Tsz Fok spent a large part of his gap year working on a valuable efficiency study of the ‘Finalising Procedure’ at Turner Powertrain Systems. He undertook an in-depth evaluation of the final stages of the production of transmissions involving the Test Rigs, Wash and Paint System and Final Assessment. He was also responsible for re-writing the existing test programme to improve efficiency and reliability. Following his four-month investigation, Tsz produced a new procedure and a new test programme that will save the company £78,000 p.a.
“The range of his activities in this project, from statistical analysis to operator involvement, was extensive, and with his combination of high intellect, interpersonal skills, and persistence, Tsz has succeeded in all aspects.”
Mr Robert T. Smith
Human Resources Manager
Turner Powertrain System

Year in Industry student working at Colgate Palmolive

Jenny Auton spent her gap year at Colgate Palmolive, researching the flow characteristics of toothpaste, to help improve the supply and filling of the product at the plant. She undertook extensive research and then designed, made and tested specialised rigs to measure the filling properties of toothpastes. Testing toothpastes on these new rigs before production will reduce the need to adapt filling and pumping machinery, potentially saving the company a significant amount of time and investment.
“Jenny has worked in a very professional manner with minimum guidance and supervision. The equipment she has designed will now be purchased for installation in each of the Colgate plants that manufacture dental cream in Europe”
Mr Ray Dry
Engineering Manager Tube Products
Colgate-Palmolive (UK) Limited

While at Firth Rixson Rings, Kate Earnshaw was involved in a vital project investigating the failure rates on several product lines following the Heat Treatment process. She was asked to find ways of reducing the number of parts that fail their mechanical tests, therefore minimising any reworking. Kate's analysis highlighted several problems arising in the Heat Treatment department, and she successfully calculated a significant potential for greater capacity.
“Kate’s ability is without question and she has made a great impression with all that she has worked with. The project she undertook has made such an impact in the department and the investment will bring the department in line with other areas of the site that have had similar improvement work carried out.”
Steve Savage
Job title Six Sigma Black Belt
Firth Rixson Rings Ltd

At Mott MacDonald, James Devlin was involved in an important research project on a new road surfacing system commissioned by The Highways Agency (HA). The project involved in-depth research of materials, overseeing trials and producing a high-specification report for the company to present to the HA. Following James’ successful completion of the report, Mott MacDonald now have a market leading position on the use of the revolutionary new surfacing material.
“A variety of work tasks were given to James, all of which he adapted to and carried out well. As a result he was entrusted with this important research project for a high-profile client, which was completed to a very professional standard”
Mr Iain MacGregor
Senior Highways/Pavement Engineer
Mott MacDonald Limited

 

 

Updated September 2009

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