Project Description
Industry: Construction / Engineering
Activity Type: Work Placement
Businesses Involved: DPS Group
School: Kirkcaldy High School
A senior pupil from Kirkcaldy High School, Johnny, successfully secured and completed a week-long work placement with DPS Group within the construction and engineering sector. Proactively sourcing the opportunity himself through Workit, Johnny demonstrated initiative and enthusiasm for pursuing a career in engineering.
This work placement gave Johnny valuable, hands-on experience across multiple departments within DPS Group, allowing him to gain insight into real-world engineering processes and career pathways.
Key focus areas included:
- Manufacturing and control panel assembly
- Electrical design and schematic software
- Automation and process control systems
Throughout the week, Johnny participated in a structured and immersive programme:
Manufacturing Experience
- Completed site induction and workshop risk assessments
- Shadowed the manufacturing team
- Assisted with control panel manufacturing, including:
- Using hand tools and reading schematics
- Collecting, mounting, and wiring components
- Practised cable preparation:
- Measuring, cutting, and stripping cables
- Crimping cables using appropriate ferrules
- Supported wiring checks on a demo panel
Electrical Design Exposure
- Worked alongside the electrical design team
- Learned how designs translate from concept to physical build
- Compared 3D designs with completed panels
- Used EPLAN software to create a 3D layout
Automation & Process Control
- Gained insight into filling systems and industrial processes
- Introduction to:
- Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
- Human Machine Interface (HMI) panels
- Assisted with dismantling pipe systems
Skills Development
- Completed a mock interview
- Undertook an aptitude assessment and plug wiring test
- Worked through an engineering-based scenario task
Impact and Outcomes
Johnny’s experience provided a well-rounded understanding of the engineering sector and the different career pathways available within it.
Key outcomes included:
- Increased confidence in practical engineering skills
- Improved understanding of workplace expectations
- Exposure to industry-standard tools and software
- Strengthened employability skills through assessments and interviews
As a direct result of his placement, Johnny was also introduced to graduate apprenticeship opportunities, giving him a clear next step for his future career.
Key Takeaways
- Early engagement with industry helps young people make informed career choices
- Hands-on experience is vital in building confidence and technical skills
- Employer involvement plays a crucial role in shaping future talent pipelines
Next Steps
Building on this positive experience, Johnny is now better equipped to pursue a career in engineering, with a clear understanding of potential pathways, including graduate apprenticeships.