Mechanical Engineering - Semester 1 highlights

AEGIS Internship success

Students who choose the placement route spend a full year gaining hands-on experience in a professional engineering environment. Working in roles such as design, manufacturing, testing or project engineering, students apply their academic learning to live industry projects while developing workplace skills and professional confidence. 

This year significantly enhances employability, with many students returning to their final year with stronger career focus and, in some cases, graduate job offers.

Following a successful 2025 placement with AEGIS Engineering Systems, Owen Snelson has secured a professional role while now completing his final year part-time.

In Semester 1, while studying Mechanical Design and Structures (level 5), the students completed a real-world engineering challenge through a 3,000-word group project. They applied core mechanical engineering principles such as analysis, modelling, and evaluation, while developing essential professional skills including teamwork, project management, technical writing, critical thinking, and effective communication. This early focus on teamwork, problem-solving, and applied learning ensures students build confidence quickly and are well prepared for the advanced technical and practical challenges later in the course. 

For me, one of the best reasons to study Mechanical Engineering is the strong emphasis towards hands-on learning and practical skills. 

Currently, in my second year, I enjoy the Mechanical Design and Structures project, working in a team of four people to design a 3-speed manual gearbox. This project allows us all to apply all of the theoretical knowledge we learn to a real engineering challenge.

Using stress analysis software and computer aided design modelling throughout the project helps to build our design skills. It is challenging but incredibly rewarding and provides me with a valuable insight into how a team operates in industry.

What stands out for me on a more personal level is the high level of support given by the lecturers and lab assistants. They are always approachable with any question you may have and they consistently go above and beyond to help and offer knowledge.

The Smart Zone is a fantastic resource; having access to 3D printers and laser cutting facilities allows me to bring my designs and ideas to life, whether that be for university or personal projects. Overall, the strong academic support given and the practical facilities makes my experience at University of Staffordshire both motivating and inspiring.