We’re extremely proud of our graduate engineering programme, pushing graduates to develop core skills in the engineering sector and gain valuable experience. Here, we spoke to Kylie Leung, one of our current graduate engineers, who talks more about her role and how she’s finding life at Mabey Hire.
Can you tell us about your time at Mabey Hire so far? How are you finding the process?
I recall receiving my offer to join Mabey Hire and realising I had limited knowledge of temporary works. Nevertheless, I accepted the opportunity without hesitation, eager to learn something new and take a different path from many of my university peers. I began my journey in September 2024 as a Graduate Design Engineer and am currently training across three key workstreams: propping, formwork, and groundworks.
Most recently, I completed a secondment in the Sales team, working closely with the Head of National Accounts and his team. With the guidance of exceptional mentors, I was able to grow rapidly in my role. This experience significantly enhanced my interpersonal skills and helped me strengthen customer relationships.
Prior to this, I undertook a short secondment in Operations, including a week on the Hire Desk. This part of the programme enabled me to build strong relationships across the business and gain valuable feedback on internal processes. I was then able to present ideas to senior management on how to improve our workflows, an incredibly rewarding experience that deepened my understanding of the wider organisation.
What are you most enjoying about your current role?
I studied Civil Engineering at Coventry University, and what initially drew me to temporary works was how little of it had been covered in my academic studies. The dynamic nature of the field, fast-paced and project-driven, makes it particularly appealing. I’ll soon be returning to my university alongside Nikolo Elchico, one of my mentors, a design engineer and former Mabey Hire graduate, to speak with students about the exciting world of temporary works.
Day-to-day, I particularly enjoy engaging with clients: delivering presentations, understanding their needs, and using those insights to support their projects. I strive to align my approach with Mabey Hire’s core values, offering expert advice, providing dependable solutions, and maintaining a collaborative, honest manner. Assisting clients in this way is incredibly fulfilling and continues to contribute to my professional development.
I also appreciate the rotational structure of the Graduate Scheme. Experiencing various workstreams has given me a comprehensive understanding of our end-to-end workflow and a deeper respect for the contributions of every department.
How has your role evolved since you first started? What projects have you been involved in?
Shortly after joining Mabey Hire, I shared an idea with our Engineering Director, Johannes Whittam, about hosting ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions. He was highly supportive and entrusted me with leading this initiative. I now coordinate tailored presentations for clients, addressing specific project needs or technical challenges, this face-to-face engagement has proven to be both insightful and rewarding.
Additionally, I’m involved in delivering aspects of our STEM programme in collaboration with National Accounts Manager Katie Jones. The programme was originally developed by Andrew Gascoine, who provided me with the guidance and knowledge required to effectively lead a session. This initiative aims to inspire young people to explore careers in engineering. I myself, hadn’t considered engineering at a young age, so it’s important to me to show future generations just how engaging and accessible the field can be.
One of my current projects is the Kier Transportation Supply Chain Challenge. Our goal is to promote the engineering sector through engaging video content that dispels outdated perceptions. From documenting daily on-site activities to highlighting team camaraderie, we hope to present a vibrant, inclusive image of the industry.
What are your long-term goals at Mabey Hire?
My long-term objective is to become a Category 2 (CAT 2) Checker across all three workstreams (propping, formwork, groundworks). Once I complete the graduate programme, I aim to focus more closely on propping and formwork, each system offers unique challenges, which makes the work particularly interesting.
I also wish to expand my understanding of traditional formwork, a topic not often covered in university curricula. Furthermore, I’m passionate about working with clients on sustainability initiatives. Mabey Hire’s carbon calculator and emphasis on reusing equipment are just some of the ways we support more sustainable site practices, and I look forward to contributing further in this area.
