Successful placement with local power supply manufacturer

Tom first heard about the NDMA during a careers lunch at his school in West Buckland. Speaking to GCSE and A-Level students in STEM subjects, Phil Scotcher, Joint Managing Director at TDK-Lambda UK and Chairman of the NDMA, outlined the manufacturing scene in North Devon, conveying the interest of local companies in students wanting to work in the sector.

“I found this incredibly intriguing,” said Perry, “and thus decided to get in touch with Janet Phillips, Business Partner at Anew South West who co-ordinates NDMA’s undergraduate scheme and summer employment programme. Janet matched my skills and objectives with TDK-Lambda and a factory tour was organised.”

Perry spoke with a few of TDK-Lambda’s engineers so that he could find out more information about their day-to-day work: “I was able to better understand the practical applications of a physics degree, which I was to begin reading in October 2017. I therefore decided to apply to TDK-Lambda for sponsorship through my degree.”

Tom’s application was successful and Lis Gillingham, HR Manager at TDK-Lambda UK organised a starting date for his six-week employment in the summer of 2017. “After a few days of training – notably in health and safety, and basic electronics – I was placed in the Research and Development (R&D) department,” recalled Perry. “All those that I met were eager to help and answer any questions I had; the experience helped me to prepare for the more independent style of study at university, as there was much to learn and apply to the various areas of the work.”

After the summer placement, Tom moved to Oxford to read Physics for a Master’s degree but remains in contact with TDK-Lambda and will be returning to carry out a new project each summer during his course. Pleased about Tom’s successful summer placement, Phil Scotcher commented: “During Tom’s first summer placement, he learnt much about the world of electronics engineering, and got the opportunity to work on many rewarding projects. We wish him every success in his future and look forward to welcoming him back this summer.”