Engineering student launches career through college collaboration
RSK Group business Homer Burgess has worked with Dumfries and Galloway College to give a local student an engineering placement at the business that has led to a permanent position.
Engineering placement pilot scheme to retain local talent
Following a visit to the college to review its facilities and capabilities, Homer Burgess’ Managing Director Jordan Bell, together with the college’s business development team, saw that there was an opportunity to work together.
Jordan said: “As a business, we wanted to attract early careers talent with an interest in engineering, particularly design and computer-aided design (CAD). The college was also keen to connect students with local engineering businesses. Once trained, many students tend to move on to larger companies in cities, so there was a strong case for local businesses to engage more actively with the college to retain talent within the region.”
A pilot scheme was established that could cater for students completing a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in engineering. Given the dynamic nature of the initiative, Homer Burgess decided to offer a flexible part-time contract consisting of three days a week.
The six-month placement was structured so that the student could work on real projects using CAD software while gaining insight into key processes such as design reviews, project planning and client communication.
Flexibility was a crucial factor, as the business needed to accommodate the academic commitments of the student while giving them meaningful responsibilities that would develop both technical and professional skills.
The engineering placement recruitment process
Jordan and a member of his management team delivered a presentation about the business and what a potential role would look like. Lecturers then promoted the opportunity to HNC engineering students.
Jordan said: “Four candidates were shortlisted for the first round of interviews, which were conducted at the college by members of the Homer Burgess team. Two students progressed to a second interview before one was offered the role.
“Engaging with and supporting the next generation is vital for the long-term sustainability of the industry. We’re proud of how this initiative has evolved and the positive impact it has had on both the student and the business.”
Graduate apprenticeship in engineering design and manufacture
The successful applicant, Jack Palmer, was drawn to the opportunity because of the hands-on industry experience it would give him alongside his studies.
He said: “It felt very rewarding and motivating to be selected, and I was excited about gaining real industry experience. Knowing that I could stay close to home while continuing my HNC was also great, as opportunities like that rarely come along in the region.”
Upon successful completion of his placement and his studies, Jack was offered a full-time role. After he expressed interest in continuing his education, Homer Burgess sponsored his graduate apprenticeship in engineering design and manufacture at the University of the West of Scotland.
Jack said: “Having the support of the business with the graduate apprenticeship is fantastic and shows how invested the team is in my development and long-term progression.
“It also highlights the value in local businesses backing local talent. There are so many motivated people in the area, and if more companies work with the college to give young people career opportunities without having to move miles away, everyone benefits and the community stays.”
Building a sustainable engineering workforce
Like Jack, Mechanical Engineering Lecturer at Dumfries and Galloway College Graham Anderson stressed the importance of local businesses supporting young people and educational institutions. He said it helps build a sustainable and skilled future workforce that aligns with local industry needs.
Graham said: “At college, we focus on giving learners the skills and confidence to take those first important steps toward becoming tradespeople. Jordan and his team at Homer Burgess recognise the value of motivated students progressing through the early stages of training, gaining exposure to a wide range of skill sets that vary significantly across the local engineering sector.
“By engaging with the college, businesses allow students to develop within a safe, controlled environment while building strong underpinning knowledge of health and safety and the fundamental principles of engineering. This early investment supports informed career choices, improves work readiness and creates a stronger pipeline of skilled, adaptable individuals who can progress into employment and further training, benefiting both the learners and the local economy.
“Engineering is a highly satisfying career, and I feel very privileged to see students enter the college and to follow their journey as they progress into highly skilled roles, just like Jack.”
Featured business
Homer Burgess
Homer Burgess, a successfully family-run company founded in 1958 and based in Dumfries, Scotland, is a well-known and respected mechanical engineering business offering design, fabrication, installation, repair and maintenance services.