Completing a 13-month industrial placement at Cummins in the role of an IT Project Coordinator was a transformative experience that allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge from my Information Technology Management for Business (ITMB) course in a real-world setting. It was a year of immense growth and personal development that I believe every student should consider as an integral part of their degree.

My Role

My primary responsibility at Cummins was spearheading IT projects, which involved closely monitoring task progress, collaborating with stakeholders, and working diligently to meet project deadlines. The role also included progress reporting, ensuring that all team members were well-informed and aligned with the project’s status. It was a high-stakes role, where every decision and action played a pivotal part in the success of our projects. In addition to project management, I had the opportunity to work on data analysis. Converting raw data into meaningful information and creating data visualisations to aid in decision-making was a rewarding aspect of my role. This experience reinforced the importance of data-driven decision-making and the impact it can have on a company’s success.

Applying Theory to Reality

One of the most significant benefits of my placement was the opportunity to apply the concepts and theories I had learned during my ITMB course. The gap between theory and practice became evident, and I gained a deeper understanding of key concepts that are often abstract in a classroom setting. There is no better way to learn than by doing, and this placement gave me the practical experience needed to truly grasp these concepts and to witness first-hand how these ideas shaped the IT landscape.

Mentorship and Personal Growth

My manager was more than a supervisor – he was a mentor who invested in my professional development. His guidance and constant encouragement were instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of IT project management. His belief in my potential fuelled my growth and shaped my journey.

Networking and Learning from Diversity

Another remarkable aspect of my placement was the opportunity to network with diverse people where everyone brought their unique background and experiences to the table. Conversations with colleagues, regardless of their level of expertise, opened doors to fresh perspectives and enriched my understanding of the IT world. Learning from their experiences and perspectives enriched my knowledge and helped shape my career goals.

Growth and Confidence

Reflecting on my placement journey, it’s clear that my industrial placement was more than just a job; it was a transformative experience. It ignited a profound personal and professional growth that I could have never imagined. It equipped me with a diverse skill set and, most importantly, the confidence to navigate the corporate landscape.

Recommendation to Embrace an Industrial Placement

If you’re contemplating an industrial placement as part of your degree programme, I wholeheartedly encourage you to seize the opportunity. My time at Cummins wasn’t just a year; it was an unforgettable adventure that left an indelible mark on my life. It’s a chance to gain hands-on experience, understand core IT principles, and most importantly, discover the confidence to thrive in a real-world work environment. An industrial placement is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it could very well be the best year of your life, just as it was for me.

Written by Sarina, current BSc ITMB student at AMBS

Related