Early Careers @ Equans

Working at Equans so far has been really exciting. It was a sector completely new to me when I first joined, yet the support I’ve received from the team I’ve worked with, along with the HR and graduate team, have helped me settle into the role and develop a deep understanding of both the company and the industry. There are many opportunities to grow and develop with training days, as well as opportunities to connect with colleagues all around the country in network days which offer opportunities to improve skills and meet colleagues in the same position as you.

This program has equipped me with the knowledge and tools required to make a real difference in the field of decarbonisation and has developed the Net Zero Carbon Roadmap for healthcare contracts to contribute to Equans ’ vision of becoming the undisputed leader in accelerating Customers’ transition to a low carbon future. As a postgraduate in Renewable Energy Engineering, I was able to apply technical knowledge gained through my studies into the real world which I consider as the most satisfying outcome of the graduate scheme. Identification of carbon reduction methodologies including energy efficiency measures, onsite renewable energy production, and heat decarbonisation were part of my daily responsibilities which will in turn help us in building a better place to live.

I’ve been involved in some Corporate Social Responsibility projects including getting two local schools in to help paint a mural in our new car park. I’ve also been liaising with contractors as we look to replace all out onsite Air Handling Units  with a more energy efficient version with the aim of reducing energy consumption on site. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the engineering team I work with. Many of them have been here for over 20 years and the wealth of knowledge they’ve accrued in that time is staggering.

The scheme has allowed me to experience a variety of different roles such as data analyst, project manager, quality engineer and quantity surveyor. It’s also allowed me to take responsibility of projects and workflows such as monitoring the quality on 2 of our solar farms, discussing outcomes with subcontractors, and ensuring our projects meet their technical requirements.

By participating in numerous teams over a range of contracts, I have developed complex team management skills, collaborating to help achieve financial targets. I have been responsible for variance reporting and establishing budgets, improving my analytical and coordination skills by working closely with the operations team. The graduate scheme has offered a host of great opportunities and encouragement from fellow graduates has been vital in networking. Through the scheme I was able to further my studies in accountancy, this allowed me to deepen my financial knowledge and understand how to apply this practically to my work.

I thoroughly enjoyed the rotational aspect of the scheme as it provided invaluable experience in various facets of the business. Moving through different departments offered valuable insights and skills, setting a solid foundation for the future. I joined the scheme without a clear idea of what I wanted to pursue. However, the Learning and Development team and the wider business were extremely supportive and flexible when I discovered my interest in working with the Data Team (even surprising myself!). Once in the role, I thrived because I was well-equipped with a diverse set of skills, a robust network, and a deep understanding of the business, all thanks to the graduate scheme.

Definitely organising a 2-day cycling/hiking challenge in Snowdon for myself and 17 other graduates. We were able to raise £15k for charity and I enjoyed it all massively!