Where can an LSBU Mechanical Engineering degree take you? James’s journey from LSBU to Net Zero Aviation
When James started his Mechanical Engineering degree at LSBU, he knew he wanted to become an engineer, but had no idea just how many directions the subject could take him. From designing and racing a single-seater car as part of LSBU’s Formula Student team, to working as a Mechanical Engineer in a global organisation, to starting a PhD in Net Zero Aviation with Cranfield University and Rolls-Royce, James has discovered just how far an engineering degree from LSBU can take you.
What did you want to do when you started at LSBU?
I knew I wanted to study Mechanical Engineering, but I had no idea how broad the subject was or what area of engineering I wanted to go into. I started at LSBU after sixth form during lockdown, having received teacher-assessed grades rather than sitting my A-level exams. At that point, my main ambition was simple: graduate with a First and go straight into industry. I also wanted to work on interesting projects and gain experience beyond just studying theory. LSBU’s hands-on approach to engineering gave me the opportunity to do exactly that.
How did you get hands-on engineering experience at LSBU?
One of the best experiences I had was joining LSBU’s Formula Student team. We designed, manufactured, tested and competed with a single-seater race car, which meant taking the engineering theory from my lectures and applying it to a real-world problem. It wasn't just about getting the design right. We had to work within regulations, meet deadlines and solve problems as a team.
Formula Student isn't currently offered at LSBU, but there are still plenty of opportunities to get involved in projects outside your course. For example, the Aim93 project is working towards breaking the land speed record for a human-powered bike.
What did you learn outside the lecture theatre?
Formula Student taught me much more than engineering. I became used to working as part of a team where different departments relied on each other, while learning how to work within strict rules, design constraints and deadlines. Those experiences helped me develop the confidence to talk about my skills and experience when I applied for jobs.
How did your LSBU experience help you get your first job?
I got a job at SMC Corporation straight after graduating. It’s a large Japanese manufacturer specialising in pneumatics and automation components, and my role involved working on refrigerated process chillers across R&D, customer support, failure investigation and design changes. I genuinely believe the confidence I developed through my practical engineering experience at LSBU helped me in my interview. Without it, I probably wouldn't have been offered the position.
Where has your engineering degree taken you?
I never expected to end up working in aviation when I started Mechanical Engineering at LSBU. After graduating, I worked at SMC Corporation in R&D, customer support and engineering design. Now, I’ve started a completely new chapter, undertaking a PhD in Net Zero Aviation at Cranfield University in partnership with Rolls-Royce. I’ll be researching cryogenic pumping of liquid hydrogen in turbofan engines, something that was far from my plans when I first started at LSBU.
It’s shown me just how many different directions an engineering degree can take you, even if you don’t know exactly where you want to end up when you start.
What would you tell someone starting at LSBU?
Your tuition fee gives you access to much more than lectures. Make the most of the library, workshops, guest lectures, extracurricular activities, competitions and all the other opportunities available to you. I didn't use every opportunity LSBU offered, such as the Careers Hub or a placement year, but I would strongly recommend students take advantage of them.
The more you get involved, the more experience you can build alongside your degree. That can help you become a stronger and more confident candidate when it’s time to graduate and start looking for your first job.