Jessica PI - Engineering Graduate

First, tell us a bit about yourself! What did you study at university? Where are you based and did you relocate for the grad programme?

I am Jessica Pi, a 2nd year SSE Renewables Graduate Engineer. I studied Geophysical Engineering at the Universidad Central de Venezuela, graduating in 2021. After packing my bags (and a whole lot of arepas), I relocated from Caracas, Venezuela, to Glasgow. 

Which sectors did you consider applying to for your graduate role? What made you choose SSE Renewables?

As a geophysical engineer from a country like mine, oil and gas was practically the only song I heard throughout my studies. But halfway through, I realized that renewable energies aligned more with my values and the future I wanted to help shape.

I choose SSE because the Graduate Scheme offered me the opportunity to learn while working for two years, which felt like hitting the career jackpot. On a recent graduate perspective this is extremely beneficial because you have the chance to experience different areas, teams, work packages and tailor your path based on highly valuable hands-on experience. I can say that I choose SSE because it offered me the opportunity to learn how to be an engineer.

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

It was challenging but doable, especially with a bit of practice for online tests. My tip: research SSE like its your favourite show —immerse yourself in their vision, goals, and purpose, and see if they align with yours. Be honest about your passions, even if your English isn’t perfect (spoiler: mine wasn’t). SSE values authenticity so show them the real you, awkward jokes and all!

Tell us a bit about your experience on the graduate programme, including any placement highlights and opportunities. 

So far, I have done four placements during the grad scheme. Three of them involved Geoscience so I had the opportunity to learn from geotechnical and geophysical engineering mostly. I’ve spent time on training, reviewing reports, visiting sites and survey vessels.

One of the most exciting projects was with the Ground Engineering team at Coire Glas. Picture this: I had the chance to be up in the highlands, working and learning about geotechnical engineering and tunnel construction while witnessing Scotland’s stunning landscapes. Doesn’t sound bad, right? 

This project was recently named Ground Investigation Project of the Year at the Ground Engineering Awards, and its incredible to think I got to be part of something that big, learning from the best minds in the field and getting hands-on experience.