Andrew Manning

What have you been doing since finishing your studies? What are you doing in terms of your career? 

After I graduated I went to work for Laing O'Rourke Detailing Reinforce concrete at their Design for Manufacture & Assembly factory in Steetley, I was there for just over a year. I then went on to work for Hannah Reed and Associates as a Graduate Structural Engineer, then Hannah Reed was bought out by Peter Brett and Associates last year. 

I've been working in engineering for just over 4 years. Currently, I work for Eastwoods and Partners and I am working towards my Chartership status with IStructE. 

In my personal life, I have continued Ballroom and Latin dancing, which I started while at University with my, now, wife. We bought our house 3 years ago and got married last year. 

What company are you working for, what is your role and what does it involve?

My job as a Structural Engineer can be very varied. I have been involved in a number of different projects such as house extensions, supermarket design and inspecting the continued structural integrity of the main dome at Center Parcs. 

What experiences at Leeds do you think have particularly helped with your career/will help with your future career? 

The course provided me with the basic knowledge of engineering which was easily built upon once in the workplace. 

Looking back, why did you choose to study your particular course and why did you choose the University of Leeds? 

I decided to study engineering due to the wide variety of careers it allows you to follow after graduating. Studying Architectural Engineering has helped me to develop my career as a Structural Engineer. I chose Leeds because of its outstanding reputation and the amount of extra-curricular activities offered by the students union.

What was the best aspect of the course/the University and why? Any highlights?

The course offered insight into a range of design and engineering disciplines and my employers have commented on how useful my varied knowledge has been.

What other activities outside of your studies were you involved in?

During my time at Leeds I was a member of a few societies. During my second year I was a member of LUU Acapella Group, and the treasurer for the LUU ArtsSoc Society.

In my third year I joined LUU Dancesport Ballroom and Latin society and in my fourth year I became the Society President. I also assisted with the department of Civil Engineering open days and the Survey Camp at Bircham Newton.

I also worked in the Terrace Bar in the Union from the beginning of my second year until graduation.

What would you say to students thinking about studying the same course at Leeds/thinking about the same career?

Try your best to secure work placements in the summer and be involved in the variety of activities that University offers to become a more well-rounded person.