What did you do before joining British Steel?
In 2018, I obtained by Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Port Harcourt. Following this, I studied for my MSc in Energy Engineering at the University of Hull, graduating in September 2022 with a distinction.
Why did you want to join British Steel?
British Steel is involved in all aspects of steel production which meant that there were opportunities for me to work in different areas with new people and build new skills, which was one of the things that motivated me to apply to join the business. It meant that I was able to apply my skillset from my studies in both mechanical and energy engineering to the benefit of the business across diverse areas, while also further developing myself.
What does your day-to-day role involve?
I work at the Scunthorpe Rod Mill as the Area Mechanical Engineer for the Water Treatment Plant and also looking after Structural Maintenance for the entire Mill.
At the Water Treatment Plant, I scope and plan jobs for day-to-day maintenance work, shutdowns and long term plant improvement works, ensuring appropriate risk assessments, technical capacity and documentation to make sure we can carry out these jobs safely and timely.
For Structural Maintenance aspect, I plan the weekly work activities, and together with the structural team scope jobs for day-to-day maintenance works and outages.
For both areas, while the jobs are happening onsite, I provide supervisory oversight to make sure that myself and the team are doing jobs safely and correctly.
What was your experience of the Graduate Scheme?
I joined British Steel as part of the Graduate Scheme in September 2022 and then worked my way up from there. During the scheme, I had two placements. First, I was at the Sinter Plant on Maintenance and then at the Blast Furnace on Projects.
The experiences throughout the year as a Graduate Engineer enabled me to build up experience and knowledge, providing me with a foundation that has enabled me to eventually go on to the role I do now.
You’re taking part in the Lean Six Sigma course – can you tell us a bit about that?
I started on the Lean Six Sigma course in October 2025 with the classes running until January 2026, which ended with me receiving the White Belt certification. Now, I have moved onto the second part, which is to achieve the Yellow Belt.
For this, I have to complete a project at the Rod Mill and for that project, I am looking at improvements to our secondary filter, which provide the last line of filtration for the SRM roll coolant water. My project will look at ways in which I can prevent damage to the bellows and extend its usage.
This project should be finished by April 2026 and then I will have to give a presentation of my project which will end the Yellow Belt section of the Lean Six Sigma course.
What are your hopes for the future?
I started working in the mill last summer and my hopes for the future is to continue working my way up from here. I would eventually like to make it to the role of an Improvement Engineer or a Lead Engineer.
I’m also hoping to do some further studies to boost my knowledge and experience, and to achieve my Incorporated Engineer status this year, and Chartered Engineer status further down the line.
What advice would you give to other people considering a career with us?
Just go for it. Across my time here, I have worked with some wonderful individuals who have been very instrumental in my growth by providing me with the support and guidance I need as a professional within the industry. It always feels great coming to work knowing I have a great support system, so I recommend it to anyone who wants to be involved in industry.
