Timothy Griffen

I have always been interested in the non-stop world of public transport and the all encompassing engineering operation that is required to keep it all moving. Go-Ahead provided the perfect opportunity to dive straight into some of the busiest rail and bus operations in Europe. Furthermore, I have been excited by the rapidly evolving world of public transport with a move to low and ultra emission vehicles. Go-Ahead is at the forefront of this industry change and provided the ultimate chance to get stuck in!

What are you doing now?

I'm currently on a 2 year graduate scheme focused on developing the skills to become a supervisory engineer. In addition to day-to-day bus maintenance operations, I have also been involved in franchise mobilisation and work on the low emission future of buses.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

Amazing investment in campus. Amazing facilities in general. Great industry connections and a distinct focus on getting graduates into industry. From an engineering-specific perspective, not many universities have a wind tunnel and vast IT suits that are dedicated to undergraduates.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

A brilliant mix of lectures and personal study time, supported by brilliant academic staff always on hand to help.

How connected was your course with industry?

There was a constant focus on industry, including guest lectures from global companies and expansive careers fairs with a huge range of companies. The careers team were always on hand to offer help too, constantly sending job alerts.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

My placement enabled me to bridge the gap between studying and employment. When I came to securing my job there wasn't any nervousness about settling into the big wide world of work, I just hit the ground running.

What was the best thing about your course?

A focus on coursework and project work from a wide ranging selection of engineering disciplines. They ranged from IT-based simulations all the way through to scale model wind tunnel testing - something many universities can't offer!

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

I think the main skills which gave me a career edge were the need for time management and general project management required throughout all individual and group projects. It is key in industry and I had a good grasp of it leaving university. This combined with access to the latest engineering tools and software definitely gave me the edge.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Time management is key. More specific skills would be the basic engineering foundations and principles that are the pillars of everyday engineering. These were key to the course and have definitely set me up well for industry!

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

Everything. The University as a whole, the staff, the facilities all combined with the mighty city of Newcastle is the ultimate combination.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Stop reading stuff like this and apply. It's a no-brainer. You won't regret a single moment of your time here.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Best four years.

For more information about me visit:

• LinkedIn Profile