Ellie Downey

"On a day to day basis I am working in a team on projects and discussing ideas. It is vital to ensure that all details are considered and calculated properly prior to construction and when construction does begin, it needs to be within timescales and budgets. Communication with my team, clients and contractors is essential. Civil engineering allows me to be creative and innovative and plan for the future, so that fits with my Developer personality. The main aspect of it is problem solving, as nothing is ever straight forward. I think this is where Investigator is really useful to me. I have to work through things logically and with other people, as Engineering is basically fitting all the facts together to find a solution."

"I work as an engineer at Peter Brett Associates. I am involved in a variety of projects including designing drainage, considering the effects of climate change, designing roads and roundabouts, foundation designs and lots more. Without civil engineers, everyday life wouldn't be possible! I like that I can be involved in a huge variety of projects from small designs to housing developments with 250 plots. The opportunity for training and expanding my knowledge is great. I am on a graduate scheme, so that means that my first two years involve lots of training and learning the job. As part of this scheme, I am on a training agreement which means I will ultimately become a Chartered Engineer and will be able to run my own projects. From there I can stay in the technical side or move over to the managerial side."

"Initially my inspiration came from teachers at my secondary school who had been Engineers and told us about the exciting and innovative projects they had worked on. Currently, my manager inspires me as he has experienced so much in the industry and has a wealth of knowledge that I aspire to."

"I enjoy baking, running and exploring the great outdoors!"

"Usually it involves a staff meeting or discussions on current projects, how we are all getting on, as well as any issues that arise. I will continue working on my current projects producing calculations, drawings and reports. I am constantly problem solving and communicating with my team, clients and contractors."

"Secondary education (GCSE/O-Levels)Post secondary education (College, A-levels, NVQ3 or equivalent) A Level Geography (A) Maths (B) Physics (B) Chemistry (B) Undergraduate degree (BSc, BA, etc.) Post-graduate degree (MSc, MA, etc.) MEng Civil and Environmental Engineering (First Class Honours)"