DriveWorks Ltd

From the 4th of July 2022 until the 3rd of July 2023 I worked at DriveWorks Ltd. They are a Software company based on the outskirts of Warrington. DriveWorks is a CAD Automation Software.

My one-year work placement at DriveWorks Ltd as an Applications Engineer was a transformative experience that enhanced my technical skills and professional growth. Following my initial year, I was invited to extend my tenure for an additional couple of months in a full-time capacity, and I continue to work part-time on a zero-hour contract while pursuing my university studies.

My Role

My role was in the Technical Team, which involved QA, Support and Demo creation. I learnt so much from this placement and not just about software but how a business is ran internally.

In my role, I engaged in various responsibilities that contributed to the company’s objectives and improved customer experiences:

Customer Support: I managed daily interactions with customers, addressing inquiries and resolving project-related issues. This role significantly enhanced my communication skills and customer-centric approach.
Quality Assurance: I conducted thorough testing of new software features and bug fixes, ensuring that our releases maintained high quality and performance standards.
Creating Customer Resources: I developed a range of resources, including instructional materials and promotional videos for our annual DriveWorks World event. My contributions also included projects showcased at the 3D Experience World event, demonstrating our software's capabilities.
Programming: I undertook various programming projects where I enhanced the software’s functionality, enabling users to control more features of their SOLIDWORKS models. This experience deepened my technical knowledge and programming skills.

Key Projects and Achievements

Staircase Demo: I successfully developed a live demo on our website, showcasing how our software can create a configurator. This project involved enhancing an existing SOLIDWORKS automation project with DriveWorks 3D features. The demo was prominently featured at the 3D Experience World event, highlighting the software's functionality.
Lead Support Role: I took on the responsibility of leading the support team, conducting meetings and delegating tasks while ensuring quality in our customer communications. This leadership experience provided me with valuable insights into team dynamics.
Languages DriveApp: Early in my placement, I tackled an issue in the DriveWorks Languages Database, which involved debugging SQL stored procedures. Despite my limited SQL experience, I successfully identified and resolved the issue, significantly contributing to the DriveApp's functionality.

Skills Developed

Throughout my placement, I enhanced my SOLIDWORKS modeling skills, progressing from an associate level to an expert. Additionally, I leveraged the skills learned at DriveWorks to create my own website, further developing my coding abilities. This self-directed learning and hands-on project work deepened my understanding of our integration theme used to host projects.

Overall, my experience at DriveWorks Ltd not only provided me with technical expertise but also instilled a strong sense of problem-solving and adaptability. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to the team as I balance my academic commitments.

Tata Steel

In July 2019, I embarked on an enriching journey to the Netherlands, where I had the invaluable opportunity to work at Tata Steel. This week-long work experience allowed me to immerse myself in an engineering environment, gaining firsthand insights into the intricacies of the industry. The warm reception and genuine kindness extended by the Tata Steel team created a supportive atmosphere, enabling me to absorb a wealth of knowledge from seasoned professionals. Despite the relatively short duration, I was fortunate to receive a comprehensive overview of the entire company, providing me with a broad understanding of its operations.

During my time at Tata Steel, I was fortunate to engage in a diverse array of tasks and experiences. Each day brought new challenges and learning opportunities, allowing me to witness the breadth and depth of work undertaken within the organization. This experience served as a pivotal milestone in my personal growth as well. It was one of the first instances in which I ventured away from home, embracing the prospect of staying with unfamiliar individuals in an entirely new setting. This venture not only bolstered my independence but also facilitated lasting connections with the people I resided with. The friendships forged during this period are ones that I cherish, and I eagerly anticipate revisiting them in the future.

Insert Jobs here

Reflecting upon my time at Tata Steel, I am immensely grateful for the knowledge gained, the skills honed, and the friendships formed. This transformative experience provided me with a glimpse into the world of engineering and instilled in me a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of the industry. As I look towards my future endeavors, I am inspired by the warmth and expertise of the Tata Steel team, further fueling my passion to pursue a career in this field.

Bircotes Leisure Center

As a dedicated Lifeguard and Centre Attendant at Bircotes Leisure Centre, I held a position of utmost responsibility, ensuring the safety and well-being of all patrons. My primary duty was to diligently guard the pool area, maintaining a vigilant watch to prevent any disruptions or hazards. Equipped with comprehensive first aid training, I was adept at responding promptly and effectively to emergencies, both in and out of the water. This proficiency proved invaluable when a woman experienced a seizure outside the facility, where my swift intervention and application of first aid techniques made a significant impact.

In addition to prioritizing the safety of our visitors, fostering positive customer interactions was an integral aspect of my role. I recognized the importance of clear and concise communication, consistently ensuring that all swimmers remained informed and aware of the situation at hand, promoting a safe environment for all. By proactively engaging with customers, I maintained a high standard of service delivery, ensuring their needs were met and providing assistance whenever required.

Throughout my tenure as a Lifeguard and Centre Attendant, I consistently demonstrated professionalism, dedication, and a commitment to ensuring the well-being of those under my care. By effectively blending my first aid expertise, diligent supervision, and exceptional customer service skills, I actively contributed to creating a secure and enjoyable environment for all visitors at Bircotes Leisure Centre.

Langold Dyscarr Primary School

In my commitment to making a positive impact in my community, I eagerly volunteer at a local primary school, immersing myself in various facets of their educational program. With my proficiency in Mathematics and a passion for sports, I actively engage in these areas, striving to contribute to the students' development. Specifically, I have had the privilege of teaching Mathematics lessons and providing personalized tutoring sessions to numerous Year 5 and 6 students. During the crucial period leading up to SATs examinations, I dedicate my time after school hours to offer valuable assistance and deliver tutoring sessions, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to excel.

Recognizing the significance of a well-rounded education, I have also assumed responsibility for teaching Physical Education lessons and organizing extracurricular sports clubs, both collaboratively with teachers and independently. Through these engagements, I have fostered an environment that encourages physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth.

Moreover, I have actively participated in residential programs organized by the school, embracing the opportunity to serve as a teacher and mentor during these excursions. Throughout these enriching experiences, I have stayed overnight and assumed a leadership role in guiding small groups of students through a diverse range of activities outlined in the itinerary. By facilitating their exploration, encouraging their development of new skills, and ensuring their safety, I have contributed to their holistic educational experience.

Through my consistent involvement and unwavering dedication, I have endeavored to enhance the learning environment at the local primary school. By leveraging my strengths in Mathematics and sports, providing targeted academic support, and engaging in immersive teaching and mentoring opportunities, I strive to empower students and foster their overall growth and success.

MSG Bar

During my time at MSG Sports Bar, I embraced the dynamic and spirited atmosphere that defined the establishment. As a dedicated team member, I honed my ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, ensuring exceptional service for patrons seeking a memorable sports-watching experience. From navigating high-energy game nights to fostering a welcoming environment for diverse clientele, I developed strong communication and multitasking skills. Collaborating with fellow staff members, I contributed to the vibrant and cohesive team culture that made MSG Sports Bar a favorite among sports enthusiasts. My tenure at MSG not only allowed me to refine my customer service skills but also taught me the importance of adaptability in a constantly evolving setting. It was a thrilling chapter in my professional journey, and the lessons learned continue to resonate in my commitment to delivering outstanding performance in any work environment.

Bawtry with Everton CC

My experience as a sports coach at Bawtry Cricket Club was a fulfilling blend of passion for the game and the joy of mentoring young talents. Having been a player at the club, the transition to a coaching role allowed me to seamlessly integrate my deep understanding of the game with the enthusiasm to nurture budding cricketers. Working with a diverse range of ages, from 7 to 15, I tailored my coaching approach to cater to each individual's skill level and learning style. It was immensely gratifying to witness the growth and development of the players both on and off the field. Beyond imparting technical expertise, my role extended to instilling values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. The experience at Bawtry Cricket Club not only solidified my coaching abilities but also reinforced my belief in the transformative power of sports in shaping young lives.

Harry Fotheringham