For the latest edition of newsletter The Blueprint, we spoke with three UTC alumni and students who have progressed to roles in National Grid, including with its clean infrastructure projects, after taking part in the Grid for Good programme.
Alexandra Johnson
UTC alumni Alexandra Johnson is studying the uses of artificial intelligence in a role with National Grid Ventures, the arm of the utility company working on large-scale clean energy infrastructure to drive society towards net zero.
She secured this role after studying a Double BTEC Extended Diploma in Engineering and an A Level in Product Design at WMG Academy for Young Engineers in Solihull.
During her time at the UTC, Alexandra had the opportunity to engage with employers including Airbus, Land Rover, the Royal Navy, and Balfour Beatty.
One company that Alexandra says “really stuck with me” was National Grid. She joined a Grid for Good masterclass that was meant for Year 13 while still in Year 12.
“I was introduced to a class of aspiring individuals, which led me to secure more opportunities with the company.”
In Year 13, Alexandra worked as a contractor for National Grid Ventures, on projects that allowed her to develop a speciality in automation of processes using programming languages such as Javascript, HTML, and Python. She is now utilising this to study artificial intelligence.
“I never thought I would be able to find a job that would interest me or push me to progress quickly,” Alexandra said.
“The support I received from my teachers and my peers at the UTC allowed me to be a stronger-minded individual. Which takes time, progress, and genuine belief in yourself, no matter how difficult it may be.
“UTCs are so different because they prepare you for what adult life really entails.”
Ivy Byng
Ivy Byng has progressed onto a higher apprenticeship at National Grid after taking part in the company’s Grid for Good programme at Aston University Engineering Academy.
Ivy found a role with National Grid after taking part in employer engagement, including a week’s paid work experience with construction company Stace, and submitting her A Level product design project for feedback from lighting manufacturer Artemide.
The 18-year-old also took part in a master class delivered by the Grid for Good programme, an opportunity that Ivy credits to the UTC.
“The UTC gave me the opportunities to look at different apprenticeships by inviting them to the college and setting up the master class with National Grid, allowing me to get the knowledge and grades to be able to apply for any apprenticeship I wanted,” she said.
After achieving results above what was predicted for her, Ivy had multiple apprenticeship opportunities to choose from, but elected for the project management apprenticeship with the National Grid.
Rizwan Shahid
Rizwan Shahid has demonstrated how well prepared UTC students are for the world of work, by securing a job with National Grid on the back of work experience and his participation in Grid for Good – while he is still a student at Aston University Sixth Form, part of the UTC in central Birmingham.
As a student, Rizwan engaged with employers through the Grid for Good masterclasses, as well as site tours, and work experience.
The latter involved visiting various company sites and understanding key operational processes.
Recognising his potential, National Grid offered Rizwan a 12-month contract which he fulfils during one day a week. He contributes to critical tasks such as analysing contracts and updating databases.
Reflecting on his experience, Rizwan credits AUEA for shaping his future: “Without AUEA and the opportunities it has given me, I would be lost in what I want to achieve.
“Now, I’ve been guided to a career of success.”