Jack Ferrans - Engineering Graduate

First, tell us a bit about yourself! What programme did you join at SSE and where are you based?

I’m Jack Ferrans and joined the SSE grad scheme in September of 2021, coming to the end of my first year. I joined the Transmission grad scheme and I'm a Graduate Project Engineer based in Glasgow.

What did you study at university?

I studied an MEng in Electrical and Mechanical Engineering with International Study at the University of Strathclyde and graduated in 2021, the same year I started SSE. 

Which sectors did you consider applying to for your graduate role? What made you choose SSE and the area you are now working in?

With the classes I had taken in university and the work experience I had taken part in, I knew that I wanted to work in the energy industry. I wanted to work with a large company and with SSEN being only one of three transmission owners in the UK, I knew SSE would be a good fit. SSE specifically grabbed my attention as there is a plethora of work upcoming in SSEN’s network area and there is a great work / life balance. It is an exciting time to be involved in the industry.

How did you find the recruitment process?  Do you have any advice for students considering applying for the SSE Graduate Programme?

A fair and ‘quick’ process. I submitted my application and didn’t hear anything for quite a few weeks, however, after the first contact from the SSE, the process was quick and flowed seamlessly. My advice would be to do research on the company – this can provide talking points in interview.  

Tell us a bit about your current role?

I am a graduate project engineer specifically looking at substations. My favourite part of the job role is being involved in real projects and being out on site. I really enjoy the balance my job role has between office-based activities and attending sites all around Scotland.

Are you working towards a professional qualification?

I am working towards my IET Chartership. I have a chartership mentor who not only is chartered herself, but  is also a senior member in the business and is able to help guide my career to aid in meeting chartership goals and objectives. We meet monthly  and she is always available at other times too. There is also a financial incentive to gain chartership if completed within a certain timeframe.