People – A young engineer’s insight

People

Early Career Insight

Harper Adams MEng student Rhodri Williams

Members insight – Rhodri Williams

As a budding agricultural engineer, I have a great passion for the future of agriculture and engineering. Where both industries work jointly to ensure the future of the planet is as sustainable as possible.

Studying an MEng Agricultural Engineering course at Harper Adams University, we grasp knowledge on the industry’s biggest strengths and challenges. I have recently returned from Germany, where I completed my year in industry placement for CLAAS as a research and development engineer for combine harvesters. These are the experiences we can seek at Harper Adams, which are more difficult to achieve elsewhere. The reputation we can use and contribute to is a great asset to Harper Adams’ students.

“I find it fascinating meeting experienced engineers as well as those only just venturing out into engineering careers.”

proud chairman this year, the engineering department has excellent relationships with industrial companies. These relationships can provide placements, graduate roles and sponsorships for events at university.

Support

I am thankful for the continued support from the CLAAS Scholarship and the Douglas Bomford Trust. Numerous scholarship opportunities are available for students of all ages. I am proud to be a scholar of both CLAAS and the DBT. I have gained financial benefit, confidence in myself and networking opportunities through the scholarships.

The IAgrE is a brilliant institution for all involved in the industry. I find it fascinating meeting experienced engineers as well as those like myself only just venturing into our engineering careers. To be able to draw on their experience and discuss the industry and its future needs is nothing short of interesting.

The future

Working in Germany has broadened my horizons. I will be seeking working travel opportunities post university, looking at the Southern Hemisphere as well as USA and Canada. I think the future is exciting with autonomous machines, live data gathering systems, agricultural practises will be adapted to accommodate many changes. After all, we are aiming to hit Net Zero targets soon, not only in the UK but globally.

I’d love to see more young engineers in the industry and engaging with the IAgrE. After all, the events on offer for us are focused on the future. Why not build such relationships now. I can’t wait for the next opportunity to arrive!