Harry Morley MEng Mechanical Engineering/ Automotive, 2015

Mechanical Engineer, Dyson Technology Ltd

Many of the key areas taught on the course, such as engineering design, materials, and project management, are used daily in my role at Dyson. Southampton’s course is well structured with a good balance of theoretical and hands-on project work to prepare people for work in a professional environment.

Can you provide a brief summary of your time at Southampton?

My time at Southampton consisted of four years of having great experiences, meeting amazing people and gaining a huge amount of knowledge completing my degree course. It is a great place to live as a student and make the transition to becoming an adult in the big wide world!

What was the highlight of your time as a Southampton student?

I had many highlights, but my proudest moment was being presented with the 2015 Student Prize for ‘The Best Student in MEng Mechanical Engineering with Automotive’ on my graduation day. It felt brilliant to know that all of the hard work had paid off.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

I found that in my third and fourth years my course started to really introduce me to some cutting edge areas of research and development, including great modules on electric vehicles and the key factors in tackling climate change.

What were your lecturers and supervisors like? Did you find them supportive?

Many of the lecturers were both friendly and supportive; they are nearly always happy to talk about the subjects that they have an interest in! The individual and group projects further helped establish these working relationships and showed the varied life of academic research.

How did the facilities available at the University help you with your research and project work?

The campus was always a pleasant place to work; in particular, we had access to fantastically equipped labs and were always well supported by the Faculty. Even as an undergraduate I got the chance to learn and use some rather expensive bits of equipment, such as the wind tunnel and the rolling road dynamometer.

What is your current role?

I work as a Mechanical Engineer within the Motors and Power Systems Design team at Dyson Technology Ltd. It is a role that carries a lot of responsibility for somebody with just over a year’s experience but it is very rewarding.

In what ways does the course you took at Southampton help you within your career?

Many of the key areas taught on my course, such as engineering design, materials, and project management, are used daily in my role at Dyson. Southampton’s course is well structured with a good balance of theoretical and hands-on project work to prepare people for work in a professional environment.

What has been your greatest career achievement so far?

I have recently been promoted up from a ‘graduate’ role, meaning that my work in the first year at Dyson has been really recognised by my team. I am now trusted with more responsibility in providing my knowledge and expertise and I look forward to progressing further with the company.

What advice would you offer to potential University of Southampton students?

Take all of the opportunities thrown your way at university; Southampton provides so many great options to improve yourself not only academically but also to become a well-rounded human being. Make friends, work hard and enjoy yourself!