Naomi
HR Graduate
How long have you worked at AWE?
I’m very new to the organisation- I’ve been here a few weeks.
What did you study at university?
I studied Law and Business at Sussex University.
Why did you choose AWE?
I knew I could have a career in HR anywhere, and it would always come with challenges, However, I knew the challenges and experiences I would get at AWE would be totally unique and that’s why I chose it to kick-start my career.
Tell us about your time at AWE?
I have recently started as an HR graduate with my main focus on graduate recruitment. This means I will get to see the recruitment process I went through, from the other side and have the opportunity to contribute to it. I am really looking forward to the advertising and marketing campaign as I get to be a part of the creative process. Equally I am looking forward to the assessment centres as I really enjoy meeting other graduates – it is a really enjoyable day! I will also be doing some work on diversity and inclusion which is something I am very passionate about and is really key for AWE. This will involve looking at innovative ways we can be more inclusive and broaden our reach – particularly in terms of recruitment.
What are the benefits of AWE?
If you are interested in a science, technology or engineering program it’s amazing because you will get to work with the latest science and technology – all to contribute to the nation’s defence. Plus, you really can’t do the work you will do here, anywhere else. The AWE graduate programmes are accredited with so many professional bodies too, which means you can have confidence in the program you are embarking on. It is a really exciting time to be at AWE and working within the business services side is no exception. No matter which function you work in, you really get the sense that you are part of something big.
In addition, AWE will support you if you want to work towards professional recognition/registration – I will be starting my CIPD Level 7 in January which I am really looking forward to. The tangible benefits should get a mention too – specifically getting every other Friday off! Working a 9 day fortnight is a great contribution to work-life balance.
What do you most enjoy about your current role?
I love the opportunity to really get involved and be a part of AWE. Recruiting graduates is integral to making sure AWE can deliver its mission for the future. Graduates will continue to be a really important part of AWE and getting to be a part of that is really rewarding. From the initial applications, right through to offer, I will get to be there along every step of the way and the knowledge that some of the graduates recruited will go on to make real contributions to the future of AWE and the nation is really exciting.
How do you see your career progressing?
Throughout my 2 years on the scheme, I will be able to experience a variety of roles within HR. Upon completion I hope to progress into a specific role based on what I most enjoyed.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about joining the AWE graduate programme?
Understand the organisation you are joining – there really are opportunities everywhere meaning you will be able to find something to fit your interests. In addition, choosing the graduate scheme means you can undertake placements getting the opportunity to experience an area you may not have considered. At AWE you are really encouraged to reach your full potential and you’ll get out what you put in.
