Jamaal Haji
B Eng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering, 2023
About me
- Graduate Project Engineer at William Hare Limited
- Studied: B Eng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering, 2023
About my career
I studied Mechanical Engineering, which is a very broad degree. I particularly enjoyed a module called Structural Analysis, which I took in my final year. I applied to several companies operating in the Civil Engineering sector, and I was accepted by one of them. My first job, which I secured in the final months of university, was as a Graduate Project Engineer in the Structural Engineering sector. How did I land this job? I would say by chance!
I am currently a Connection Designer at William Hare. William Hare is one of the largest structural engineering companies in the world, having designed and erected many of the high-rise buildings in London! My job involves designing connections that allow various beams, columns, and bracings to connect to each other. Yes, you guessed it — it’s pure maths! As a graduate, I rotate between different engineering departments, gaining a variety of skills, from designing and detailing to project management and building client relations.
Teamwork, communication, critical thinking, and time management are just a few of the many skills I have developed since my time at university. In my opinion, I use all these skills on a daily basis. Engineering isn’t just about sitting in front of a computer and playing with different software; it’s about collaboration and bringing different ideas together to form a solution.
Since graduating, I have been with William Hare for just over a year, during which time I have attended many CPD (Continuing Professional Development) sessions that the company holds on a weekly basis. I have also signed up to be a STEM Ambassador, which allows me to participate in various events around the UK, from helping children understand the basics of engineering to attending careers events, where I inform students about job opportunities and the roles available. Additionally, I am a Graduate Member of ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers), working my way towards becoming chartered.
My top tip for students
The two most important characteristics are patience and consistency. Finding a job is not easy — or rather, finding a job is easy, but getting into one is difficult. Don’t expect to apply for just one job, hear back from them quickly, and get accepted. Remember, there are hundreds of people applying for the same position.
So my advice?
- Be honest.
- Be consistent and apply to several places and keep doing so. Replies will eventually find their way into your inbox.
- Be patient and remember, instant gratification doesn’t exist here. Once you’ve sent off your application, there’s not much you can do until you hear back, so don’t stress over it. Send as many applications as you can and then wait to hear back.
I’m inspired by
Moving parts! Of course I am, as I studied Mechanical Engineering. By ‘moving parts’, I mean the inner workings of a combustion engine.
Why I love Manchester Met
I really appreciated the time and effort my tutors put into their work at university. They were dedicated to ensuring I was happy and understood the material being taught. This helped me achieve the best grades possible.