Jon Hughes is a MSc Temporary Works and Construction Method Engineering Student.
What motivated you to pursue postgraduate study?
The educational base required to become a Chartered Engineer with the The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE).
What were you doing before applying for a postgraduate degree?
Before applying, I was in full time employment as a Temporary Works Design Engineer.
Why did you choose City?
I chose City because it is one of the only universities in the UK that offers an accredited MSc in Temporary Works.
How are you funding your studies?
My employer paid my tuition fees.
What does a typical week at university look like for you?
It originally started by having to travel down to London every Wednesday evening, staying over in a Travelodge and attending the course on the Thursday.
However, the fact the course moved online made it so much easier for someone like me who lives a long way outside of London (Warrington).
What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?
I enjoyed the Temporary Works for Marine Construction Module. I also enjoyed the Groundwater Control module. Both of which I had no previous experience.
What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?
Both calculation ability and understanding behind various Temporary Works Challenges during construction.
What opportunities and experiences has City offered you so far?
We had a placement with Mace construction on a site to look at various types of Temporary Works being implemented including the Tower Crane and how it was being tied to the structure.
We also spent the day with RMD ltd - part of the supply chain where we constructed various items of proprietary formwork and falsework. We also learned to use their Beam software and undertook various calculation exercises.
What are your career plans and how has City prepared you for them?
My next step is to start the process to become CEng with the ICE.
What advice would you give to someone considering a postgraduate degree?
This course certainly opens many doors for you in terms of opportunity and progression in your career. For example, since starting the course I have been promoted to Senior Engineer.