Maya's interest in engineering started at 16. Her granddad owned his own firm, and after finishing school she spent the summer holidays working with him. That experience convinced her it was what she wanted to do. She is now studying a Level 5 HND in Mechanical Engineering at Tameside College while working for an aerospace engineering company.
Maya, Mechanical Engineering at Tameside College
Story Video
Background
Goal
Tameside College's facilities are industry standard, with state-of-the-art modern machines that students use day to day as part of their learning. The HND builds higher-level knowledge of mechanical science and design, alongside an understanding of how it is applied in industry, with support from both college tutors and apprenticeship tutors.
As a Higher Technical Qualification, the course was developed with employers and focuses on the working knowledge and skills industry needs. Every lecturer on the course holds a teaching qualification and a Level 6 qualification in mechanical engineering, and the department's lecturers have at least five years of industrial experience. Students start with the HNC and can progress to the HND in their second year.
Journey
Maya began at Level 2 in Mechanical Engineering, learning on conventional lathes and milling machines. Since then she has progressed through to HND level and moved on to the latest modern technology. Along the way, the course and the support of her tutors have given her a clear idea of where she wants her career to go.
Outcome
Maya sees herself staying with her current company and possibly progressing on to further learning and skills in the aerospace industry. An HND in Mechanical Engineering suits students aiming for higher technical roles, with a view to moving into engineering management.
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