A graduate's own experience
Our values are integral to the way we think and work, and it’s important to us that those we work with, both internally and externally, understand what we’re about. The four key ideas that drive us collectively and individually are: dynamism, tenacity, invention and collaboration. In other words, we like a challenge, are focused on our goals, aren’t afraid to think differently and know that the best work often comes from sharing the load.
Michael Holmes is a fourth year undergraduate, studying Engineering at Oxford University. He completed a work placement at Torotrak in the summer of 2011
How did you get involved with Torotrak?
For my third year project I was working on Kinetic Energy Recovery Systems (KERS) for Formula 1 and the design required a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). My research led me straight to Torotrak. I was struck by the company’s ingenuity and fascinated by the areas in which it’s applying its technology and so I contacted them to see if I could get involved.
What did the placement entail?
The placement provided a good mix of engineering experience and commercial exposure. It’s a close-knit team and I felt involved in the whole company from the start. Regular company-wide briefings kept me in-touch with other new developments taking place and plans for the future. My main task was the physical modelling of a CVT control hydraulics using some new software, which was challenging and interesting work. I got satisfaction from the fact that, at the end of my placement, I had delivered a complete software model ready for customer use. I know my contribution was valued.
What did you gain from the placement?
It was good to put what I’ve learnt at university into practice. I had studied fluid dynamics, had some experience with MATLAB and was familiar with the CVT's operation from my third year project. It was exciting to see what it takes to apply this in a commercial environment: the rigour, the analysis and how systematic you must be in your approach. I learned a lot from Torotrak’s people too. I gained some insight into how the industry meets its technical and commercial challenges, how Torotrak works with major companies from all over the world and the technical capability required to operate at that level.
Any advice for somebody thinking about applying for a place at Torotrak?
You should go for it. I’ve been offered a job for when I graduate, so it’s definitely time well-spent. Torotrak is an innovative company at the forefront of new, green technology and it has a growing profile in the industry. Career-wise, now is a great time to get involved. The people are friendly, supportive and committed, which gives everybody a real sense of involvement. I think that’s hard to find.