Shaping the next generation: work experience student at New Wear Footbridge
The New Wear Footbridge project team recently welcomed Anahera Dixon, a civil and structural engineering student at Newcastle University, to site.
During her placement Anahera was mentored by Zaid Al-Ghadhanfari, Sub Agent on the project, we spoke to Anahera to find out how she had benefited from this experience.
What tasks were you given during your placement?
“Whilst onsite I helped with the structural work by fabricating packers, measuring gaps, verifying travelling system dimensions, checking precast unit movement and adjusting east/west alignment. Additionally, I assisted with concrete work and inspections, tracking stitching concrete strength, conducting pre-pour inspections, assisting with the pouring, performing slump tests and creating and testing concrete cubes.
“I also supported the team with HSE and quality assurance, this included conducting site inspections, completing FRC checklists, performing cover meter surveys and generating client reports.”
How do you feel a site placement compares to studying civil engineering at university?
“Watching and observing how things are done onsite has given me invaluable insight into how the concepts we learn at university apply to real world scenarios. Being able to see theories in practice has deepened my understanding, in a way that classroom learning alone cannot. In just two weeks I feel I have learned as much, if not more, than I have from my studies. The hands-on experience has helped bridge the gap between theory and application.”
Is there anything you learnt whilst onsite that you hadn't encountered before during your studies?
“Yes, during my placement, I was surprised by the level of coordination and problem solving required onsite. Whilst university teaches the technical aspects of civil engineering, I hadn’t fully appreciated the importance of communication between engineers, contractors and other stakeholders to keep a project running smoothly. Seeing how engineers handle these real time issues was an eye-opening experience.”
This opportunity helped Anahera consolidate that she wants to work on the contracting side of civil engineering.
During her last day, Anahera brought in doughnuts and a card for the team, which really meant a lot to the team, knowing they have had such an impact on a young person's future.
“Annie is a bright and ambitious young engineer who demonstrated exceptional commitment, determination, and organisational skills during her two weeks with our team. “Her enthusiasm and eagerness to learn were truly impressive. I would love to see her return in the future and have no doubt she has a promising career ahead of her in civil engineering.”
Zaid Al-Ghadhanfari Mentor
