This week we shadowed Karina, Nugent Apprentice Quality Engineer, for part of the day to find out how she is getting on in her role. She is studying a Higher-Level Apprenticeship Foundation Degree in Manufacturing Engineering in South West College, Dungannon.
What attracted you to Nugent in the first place?
I have always wanted to work in a company that manufactures agricultural equipment, I liked that Nugent produced a wide range of products and that’s why I wanted to join the company. I work 4 days a week alongside my studies, which is 1 day a week in a 3-year course in Manufacturing Engineering. This includes a mixture of modules from Manufacturing processes and operations management, to Robotics and Automation.
Give me a bit of insight into your role
Throughout the week I am busy checking the quality of finished trailers. This can cover all sorts of issues and it’s my responsibility to find out where it starts, whether it be a minor tweak needed in welding or in the cut shop to ensure the materials are folded correctly. Ensuring the trailers produced are in top condition. This means I am involved in many stages of the trailer production process. I have learnt a lot since I started in this role.
What do you like most about working here?
I enjoy being able to communicate with all departments, this role ensures I collaborate with multiple employees to produce the best results. This helps me to learn more about factory processes and understand how everyone plays a role in the company.
It helps my studies and skills development through gaining a better understanding of the theory applied within Nugent operations.
Do you have any advice for someone considering this role or the engineering sector as a career path?
I think this is the best role to start within an engineering company, as it gives great insight into multiple roles and helps you understand exactly how the trailers are produced.
What do you get up to in your spare time?
I am just as busy outside of work as I am inside work. I go to the gym 5 or 6 days a week, while working part time in a bar. On the side lines I do modelling, and I also own 2 horses and dogs which keeps me occupied.