ESB International - Adelina Henderson Graduate Profile
2008 Graduate
- Name: Adelina Henderson
- Title: Graduate Mechanical Engineer
- Qualifications:B.E. (Hons), UCD and MSc, UL.
- Business Line: Power Plant
What is your educational background?
I completed my Bachelor of Engineering Degree in UCD, after which I ventured west and completed a Masters in Material Science in the University of Limerick. A month after finishing up in Limerick, I started working for ESB International, joining the Graduate Programme.
Why did you choose ESBI?
Throughout my undergraduate degree I knew I had a keen interest in all things Material Science related. When I was offered a place on the ESBI Graduate Programme I knew that a great opportunity had presented itself to me and that I would be able to pursue my 'ideal' career path (an opportunity that doesn't present itself to everyone) in the most exciting of settings.
Tell me about starting in ESBI?
Like every graduate who joined with me, I was both nervous and excited about starting out. I was nervous about my new environment, but excited about getting stuck-in and meeting new people.
What did you think of the ESBI Entry Level Graduate Programme?
Like most graduates, I came in with no industry-based experience so the Graduate Programme allowed me the time to ease gently into my new work environment and become knowledgeable about the power industry.
Tell us about your current role and team?
At present I work in the Power Plant Division of ESBI, responsible for carrying out the engineering role on power plant projects. My role in the team is two-fold - on one hand I work on the mechanical side by lending engineering support on various ongoing projects. And on the other hand, I am currently being trained on metallurgy (the study of the physical and chemical behaviour of metals) in relation to power plant engineering.
How does ESBI foster your career development?
ESBI is an engineering and consultancy company who sell a particular skill set, so its staff are, in effect, its biggest asset. Because of this ESBI put a lot of time and effort into your career development. Since starting here they have been very supportive in training me and have allowed me participate in a number of training courses that have furthered my development, and hence my role in the company.
Why would you recommend ESBI to Graduates?
I would recommend ESBI to Graduates because it's one of the few companies out there that put a name to each of its employees. It's quite a personable company with a positive working ethos and a great team environment. I'm never afraid to ask a question and there are always a dozen people ready to take the time to answer it. And if that isn't enough, the energy sector is a very exciting place to be right now, so each day is different and a new experience.
Is it all work and no play?
Definitely not! There is a great drive by ESBI to achieve a life-work balance for its employees. The company fosters the idea that your work colleagues can also be your friends, and promotes this by organising events throughout the year as well as social clubs catering to different interests. I've made some great friends in the last year.
Can you give us a feel for the culture of ESBI?
There's a really good atmosphere here in ESBI. Because everyone is so helpful and friendly you don't really see the difference in the generations. The atmosphere is hard working but you can see people really enjoy what they do and there's a keenness to get the job done right. People here are proud of what they achieve in a day, and it really contributes to a great working environment.
What tips would you give to a graduate starting out?
I suppose the main tip I'd give to any graduate is to go into everything with an open mind. Don't assume that you know it all, because at the end of the day, you really don't. Be prepared to ask the questions you're afraid to ask, and never doubt your capability. Chances are you'll surprise yourself and achieve things you never thought you could. I know I have here in ESBI!!
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