Kate Kostick
BEng Mechanical Engineering
Why did you choose Mechanical Engineering at the University of Aberdeen?
As a mature student making the decision to return to academia, my journey back to the classroom was largely influenced by my professional background in the Oil and Gas Industry. Throughout my career, I've always been connected to the field of engineering, finding myself increasingly fascinated by the complexities of processes and equipment. Despite my experience, I realised there were layers of understanding and technical knowledge that remained out of reach, answers to questions that couldn't be satisfied through experience alone. This gap in my understanding fuelled my curiosity and pushed me to pursue a formal education in engineering.
Choosing the engineering program at the University of Aberdeen was a strategic decision beyond just fulfilling my academic curiosity. Given the university's proximity to the heart of the industry, it holds strong connections that are invaluable for my re-employment back into the Oil and Gas sector. Aberdeen, being the Oil and Gas capital of Europe, presents a unique advantage, offering networking opportunities and access to an array of potential employers.
What part of your degree programme have you enjoyed the most or find most interesting so far?
As someone who thrives on challenges and seeks continuous growth, I found the Mechanical Engineering degree program to be particularly apt. The courses offered a balance of complexity and diversity, yet they incorporated fundamental concepts effectively. Among the various aspects of the program, the Individual Project in the fourth year stood out as the most rewarding for me. It provided an opportunity to integrate and apply the knowledge and skills I had accumulated throughout my studies.
Additionally, my involvement with ProtoTAU, the engineering society that designs, builds, and races a hydrogen-powered vehicle for the Shell Eco-Marathon, has been immensely satisfying. Being part of this project allowed me to choose a subject related to the car for my Individual Project, offering a level of independence and flexibility that greatly enhanced my engagement with the work. This unique combination of applying theoretical knowledge to a practical, tangible project not only solidified my understanding of engineering principles but also provided a highly motivational and rewarding experience.
What knowledge, skills or experience have you gained or developed on your programme?
The journey through my engineering degree has been transformative, with resilience emerging as the most significant trait I've developed. Initially unprepared for the challenges the program presented, I've since learned to navigate obstacles with a determination that has only grown stronger over time. This resilience is complemented by a suite of technical and professional skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving with a deep understanding of engineering principles and practices.
Additionally, my experience at the University was enriched by my roles as a student representative for my year group and as the elected School of Engineering Convenor. These positions afforded me a unique opportunity to develop a broad range of skills beyond the technical aspects of my degree. Leadership, communication, organisation, and negotiation skills were refined through these roles, as I worked to represent my peers effectively and contribute to the improvement of our academic environment.
Beyond the core engineering competencies, this experience has opened avenues for developing interpersonal, management, and leadership skills, emphasising the holistic development of its students. This comprehensive skill set does not only equip for specific demands of the engineering field but also offers the versatility needed to adapt and excel in various professional contexts.
Have you taken part in any work placement, internship, or other type of research or professional experience during your studies?
I have been actively involved with the ProtoTAU society, which is a student led society dedicated to designing, building, and racing a hydrogen-powered vehicle in the Shell Eco-Marathon. I joined the society in my third year, looking for a meaningful and enjoyable way to spend my time at university. Within ProtoTAU, I held the roles of Committee Member Industry Liaison and I was the PR and Marketing team team lead.
As the Industry Liaison, I developed key skills in networking, communication, and project management by fostering relationships between our society and industry partners. This not only offered me a glimpse into the professional world of engineering but also helped me understand the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. In my PR and Marketing team lead role, I refined my abilities in public speaking, digital marketing, and team coordination, skills that are crucial for any engineer looking to make an impact beyond technical work.
Participation in ProtoTAU often extended beyond the workshop and into the professional world through attendance at industry-related events. These events served as an excellent networking platform, providing opportunities to connect with professionals and companies within the engineering sector. Such interactions have been invaluable, offering a glimpse into future career paths and establishing connections that could benefit my professional life after university.
ProtoTAU's open environment, where members are encouraged to explore different sub-teams, allowed me to gain a broad understanding of various aspects of engineering projects. This flexibility and the supportive team culture enhanced my learning experience, making it richer and more diverse. Additionally, my involvement in designing and dynamically modelling a suspension system for the vehicle as my individual project topic provided a hands-on experience that bridged the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world application. Engaging with the team's expertise made this project not only more informative but also thoroughly enjoyable.
Participating in the Shell Eco-Marathon as part of ProtoTAU stands out as a highlight of my university experience. The opportunity to compete in a Europe-wide event, which brings together universities from across the continent to vie for the most efficient vehicle, is incredibly rewarding. This year's event in the south of France not only promises a competitive atmosphere but also a welcome dose of sunshine. Collaborating with other UK universities participating in the event opens avenues for learning and problem-solving, allowing us to share insights and solutions to common challenges. This spirit of collaboration and competition has been invaluable, making my time with ProtoTAU a defining feature of my engineering education at the University of Aberdeen.
What are your plans for the future?
I have accepted a graduate engineering position with a leading oil and gas company based in Aberdeen. These graduate programs are highly advantageous for several reasons. First, they offer an immersive experience in real-world engineering challenges, allowing me to apply and expand upon the knowledge and skills I've acquired during my time at the University of Aberdeen. Additionally, these programs provide structured development opportunities, including mentorship, on-the-job training, and exposure to various aspects of the industry, which align perfectly with my academic background and personal career goals.
While my immediate aim has always been to re-enter the oil and gas industry as an engineer, I am also keenly aware of the versatility and broad opportunities that a degree in engineering offers. The field of engineering is uniquely expansive, opening doors to myriad career paths beyond traditional roles. Should I ever decide to explore beyond the oil and gas sector, one of my greatest aspirations is to work within the movie industry, specifically in designing and executing movie stunts. The creative challenge and technical precision required in stunt work appeal to my engineering sensibilities and passion for problem-solving. This potential shift underscores the beauty of an engineering career; its ability to pivot and adapt to diverse interests and industries, ensuring a dynamic and fulfilling professional journey
