Building a Career in Engineering: Liniet's Graduate Journey at SSE

Since joining SSE's Project Engineering Graduate Programme in 2024, Liniet has been developing her skills, gaining hands-on experience and contributing to major transmission projects across the business. With a background in Civil and Structural Engineering and a strong interest in sustainable development, she was looking for a role where she could apply her technical knowledge while making a meaningful impact. In this Q&A, Liniet shares her experience of the graduate programme so far, reflects on her biggest learning opportunities and discusses her ambitions for the future.

This passion naturally drew me towards the energy sector, where I could combine my technical background with the opportunity to contribute to projects that have a meaningful impact on communities and the environment. Joining SSE felt like a fantastic opportunity to begin my career while supporting the UK's transition to net zero.

How did you find the recruitment process and what advice would you give to someone thinking about applying for the graduate programme?

I found the recruitment process to be well organised, transparent and welcoming. Throughout each stage, there was clear communication about what was expected, which helped me prepare and feel confident in demonstrating both my technical skills and personal motivations.

My advice to anyone considering applying would be to focus on being authentic. SSE is looking for people who are passionate about the future of energy and who can demonstrate a willingness to learn and collaborate. Take the time to understand the company's values and purpose and think about how your own experiences and aspirations align with them. You don't need to have all the answers; showing curiosity, enthusiasm and a desire to develop can go a long way.

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

I was keen to remain within civil engineering and the wider built environment, with my interests being in both the water and energy sectors. As I explored graduate opportunities, I was looking for an organisation where I could apply my engineering knowledge while contributing to something meaningful.

SSE stood out because of its ambition to help deliver the UK's transition to net zero. This aligned closely with my own values and aspirations after studying the impacts of climate change and sustainable development. I wanted my career to contribute positively to society and support the development of critical infrastructure for future generations.

The graduate programme itself was also very appealing. The role was clearly explained, and I could see that it would provide a broad range of experiences, exposure to major projects and opportunities for professional development. It felt like a place where I could grow both technically and personally.

Looking back over the programme, what have been your biggest learning experiences or achievements?

One of the biggest learning experiences has been gaining an appreciation for the scale and complexity of delivering major energy infrastructure projects. Through the structure of the graduate programme and the support of colleagues across the business, I have developed a much broader understanding of SSE beyond project engineering alone.

Technically, I have benefited from extensive training and hands-on experience that has strengthened my capabilities as a civil engineer. However, perhaps the most valuable lesson has been recognising that while qualifications and technical expertise are important, it is ultimately people, collaboration and a shared sense of purpose that drive the success of an organisation as large as SSE.

In terms of achievements, I am proud to have supported several major transmission projects during my time on the programme. Alongside this, I pursued a Data Business Pro qualification, supported by the business, and performed strongly across the modules, developing skills that complement my engineering background. Equally important has been building relationships with colleagues throughout the business, whose support, knowledge and encouragement have made the experience both rewarding and enjoyable.

How has the graduate programme helped you develop professionally, and what are your career aspirations for the future?

The graduate programme has accelerated my professional development by giving me exposure to a wide range of projects, disciplines and stakeholders across the business. I've had opportunities to develop both my technical engineering capability and the broader skills required to deliver complex infrastructure projects, including project management, stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration.

The programme has also reinforced the importance of continuous learning. Through technical training, site experience, professional qualifications and exposure to experienced colleagues, I have gained confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to major projects and take on increasing responsibility.

Looking ahead, I aspire to continue developing as a civil engineer and work towards becoming a Chartered Engineer. I hope to build on the foundations the graduate programme has provided and progress into roles where I can help deliver critical energy infrastructure safely, sustainably and efficiently. More broadly, I want my career to contribute to the UK's net zero ambitions while creating lasting value for communities and the environment.