‘I never realised civil engineering could combine all my interests’

Before taking part in the ICE CityZen Award, I was unsure about my future career.

I enjoyed subjects that involved problem-solving and analytical thinking, which initially drew me towards finance.

At the same time, I loved learning about coasts, tectonics and the natural environment through geography.

What I didn’t realise was that there was a career that could bring all these interests together.

That changed when I took part in the award, where my team won the Loud Speaker prize for our communication and presentation skills.

Later, this led to work experience with engineering consultancy Tony Gee, and my path became clearer.

How ICE CityZen opened new doors

I participated in the ICE CityZen Award from September to December.

The programme introduced me to civil engineering through interactive challenges before moving on to a larger project focused on improving our local area through engineering solutions.

Watch my team's winning video

One of the biggest benefits of the competition was meeting professionals from the industry. Through connections made at the awards event, an opportunity for work experience at Tony Gee became available.

At the time, I saw the placement as a chance to learn more about engineering. I didn’t expect it would help me decide on my future career.

A warm welcome into the world of engineering

Starting my placement was nerve-racking. It was my first formal work experience and I didn’t know what to expect, but the team at Tony Gee immediately made me feel welcome.

I was placed within the sustainability team and spent my first day learning about the wide range of career paths availableg.

I attended meetings, completed research tasks and learned about social value, which focuses on creating positive benefits for the communities affected by engineering projects.

Social value creation, like providing educational opportunities, work experience placements or community engagement activities, had come up in the ICE CityZen game. It was great to hear that engineering companies make sure it’s prioritised in their projects.

I was also introduced to BREEAM, a sustainability assessment method used to measure the environmental performance of buildings and infrastructure.

These experiences helped me understand that engineering projects are about much more than technical design. They also consider environmental impact, community benefits and long-term sustainability.

Discovering geotechnical engineering

One of the highlights of my placement was meeting engineers from different disciplines, including geotechnical, structural, highways and railway engineering.

The conversation that had the biggest impact on me was with a geotechnical engineer.

As someone who enjoys geography, I found it fascinating to learn how soil influences the design and construction of infrastructure. I discovered how geotechnical engineers assess ground conditions, collect samples and help determine whether land is suitable for a project.

I was surprised by how closely the role connected to subjects I already enjoyed studying at school.

For the first time, I could clearly picture myself working in a particular area of engineering.

Learning beyond the classroom

Throughout the week, I was given a variety of tasks that helped me understand how engineering businesses operate.

I worked on sustainability-related research, created communication materials for awareness campaigns and attended team meetings where engineers discussed live projects.

One particularly memorable experience was attending a structures team meeting. Listening to engineers explain the challenges involved in complex projects highlighted the amount of planning, creativity and collaboration required behind the scenes.

I also had the opportunity to speak with degree apprentices, who shared their experiences of combining work and study. Before this placement I knew very little about it, but these conversations helped me understand that there are different routes into an engineering career.

By the end of the week, I could see a range of possibilities that I had never previously considered.

Finding direction for the future

The most valuable part of the experience was gaining clarity.

Before the ICE CityZen Award and my placement at Tony Gee, I was uncertain about which career path to pursue.

After speaking to engineers, attending meetings and experiencing a professional working environment, I left with a much clearer picture of where my interests lie.

I’m now seriously considering a future in civil engineering, particularly geotechnical engineering.

Why opportunities like this matter

I know many young people find it difficult to secure meaningful work experience.

My advice would be to get involved in opportunities such as the ICE CityZen Award and to speak to people already working in industries that interest you.

You never know where a conversation or opportunity might lead.

Take part in the ICE CityZen Award