Name: James Brown
Job Title: Project Engineer
Time at RWE npower: 3.5 years
I joined the npower graduate training programme as a Graduate Engineer, after finishing a four year masters in Engineering. I was based at Fawley Power Station, which was over 250 miles away from home, so I moved down here and lived in B&B until I found rented accommodation. The programme is really comprehensive, and includes technical training, management training and secondments to other sites. And I have a mentor who supports me in my day-to-day activities, giving me direction and making sure I'm doing the right things at the right time.
I'm still working at Fawley - now as a Project Engineer - and am hoping to achieve a Chartered Status with the Institute of Mechanical Engineers within the next year. I really enjoy my job, although it can sometimes be demanding - but that's what makes it so exciting. And we have some great benefits, including pension schemes and an on-site sports and social club.
Name: Anthony Holder
Job Title: Operations Technician
Time at RWE npower: 14 years
I've been interested in design since I was at school, and that's why I got into mechanical engineering. When I did work experience at a power station I realised this was what I wanted to do.
I started at npower as an Apprentice in 1994, and gradually worked my way up to becoming a permanent employee. Now, my typical day would involve planning maintenance tasks, setting the safety for the processes these involve and putting together the relevant documentation so the craftsmen can carry them out. At the moment I'm also doing a part time degree alongside my work, which npower is sponsoring and supporting by giving me day release to study.
The scope and opportunities for moving around the company are huge, and the skills and knowledge at the various sites are incredibly diverse. I'm really glad I took this route, as npower has helped me develop both my academic and work skills. And with the profile raising that's been done recently with the sponsorship of English cricket and Wembley Stadium, it's a company I'm proud to say I work for.
