Graduate's engineering career on track thanks to DMU


Landing a job with one of the UK’s leading train leasing specialists has set a De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) graduate right on track shortly after finishing his Mechatronics MSc.

Matthew Cooper, who also completed DMU’s BEng Mechatronics (Hons) course in 2013, wanted to further expand his knowledge and career opportunities through a Master’s.

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Having already studied at DMU, Matthew was familiar with the lecturers and tutors and was confident that he would get the ‘good teaching and support’ that he needed.

Qualifying for a Vice-Chancellor's 2020 scholarship, which offers a tuition fee discount of up to 50 per cent, made it possible for him to realise his ambition.

Finishing his MSc in 2015 furthered Matthew’s knowledge in areas such as programming, mechatronic systems, dynamics and control and digital signal processing. It also developed his skills in research, communication, leadership and machining.

The 24-year-old said: “After my MSc I felt a lot more prepared to start my career.”

“It also allowed me to apply for jobs that required a higher qualification, came with greater responsibilities and increased my earning potential.”

“The course challenged me to improve all aspects of my study and work, which has given me the skills to do well in my chosen career path.”

Matthew, who has just completed a two-year graduate scheme at Angel Trains - which leases trains to all 19 franchised operators in the UK - said: “As part of the scheme my days varied a fair amount, which gave me an appreciation of all aspects of the industry I am in.

“Some days I researched new ideas or met with suppliers to discuss solutions. I would meet train operators about modifications to trains they were operating.

“I also spent time visiting maintenance depots to see trains being maintained or to inspect the condition of our assets and discuss possible improvements.”

Just weeks into his new role as a Systems Engineer within product technology team, Matthew is instrumental in researching and carrying out modifications to the trains in order to increase efficiency, safety, reliability and improve the passenger experience.

He is also working towards becoming a chartered engineer with the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), funded by his employer as a requirement of the graduate scheme.

“Two years into my career and I feel I’ve gained a good start. I’m now focussed on developing my skills and becoming chartered”, said Matthew.

Posted on Tuesday 6 September 2016

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