Project Description
Graduate Mechanical Engineer and key worker, Barry Smith, is part of the Liquid Gas Equipment (LGE) mechanical team at Babcock’s Rosyth site.
Originally from Crieff, the 33-year-old’s initial career was in the construction industry as a roofer. However, Barry – who enjoyed problem-solving and the technical aspects of this job – felt he could do something different. After making the decision to return to education, he moved to Edinburgh to study engineering at Edinburgh College. After completing his HND in Mechanical Engineering, Barry gained a direct entry to Heriot-Watt University to study a master’s degree in Mechanical and Energy Engineering.
Between his fourth and fifth year at university, Barry completed a three-month summer internship with Babcock at HMNB Clyde, Faslane. He was fortunate to be offered a full-time position following his graduation. Barry spent a few months at HMNB Clyde before transferring to Rosyth.
Currently embedded in the LGE mechanical team, Barry undertakes a wide range of activities, such as checking calculations and updating change to equipment specifications, whilst supporting the wider team lead with deliverables and design optimisation tasks.
Barry has developed many skills, including project management, planning and organisational, software and interpersonal skills. Barry has also completed a number of training courses, with several focusing on health, safety and the environment. All of this training will form part of the evidence towards achieving his main aim of becoming a Chartered Mechanical Engineer.
Barry said: “I enjoy working for a company that offers a wide scope of opportunity globally. My involvement in a variety of work that is critical to the safety of the nation has allowed me to experience complex engineering systems, such as cargo handling vessels and warships.”
“I am also active in encouraging the next generation of engineers by promoting STEM at career fairs and by hosting work experience weeks on-site.
“I am proud to work for a company that has continued to support and strengthen the nation’s defences throughout these challenging circumstances. Each of us have had to adapt to new working environments and introduce new procedures to ensure our output continues to meet our customers’ expectations. I believe that Babcock is a company that has successfully risen to these challenges.”
When asked what advice he would give a young school-leaver, at the top of Barry’s list was “expressing and exploring your interests”.
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