Leyland Clowsley

Engineering is almost like being a magician, coming up with innovative ideas and solutions to the world’s problems.

The role I’m in demands that I know everything I can about every department of the business so that I can process and manage new manufacturing orders and deal with any engineering problems that may arise. My degree subject massively helps me. The university workload provided realworld experience of how many hats you can wear in a role.

I implement new automation technologies including robotics, vision systems and maybe even one day autonomous platforms on to the factory floor. Whenever I see a problem with production lines I spring into action and start trying to make improvements in the efficiency, cost or speed.

The commercial aspects of my role allow me to meet with the company’s clients, hear about their problems or the new products they need and then stick with them every step of the way until their product has been delivered successfully. This involves everything from pitching new ideas, to generating the quotes for mass manufacture and calculating the factory’s ability to deal with their order.

Effectively I deal with everything in a very entrepreneurial way.

Post 16 Education: Product Design and Engineering

Higher Education: BA Industrial Design and Technology

Why did you choose to study Design?

I have always been passionate about British Manufacturing and creating innovative solutions to technological problems. Most related courses at other universities focused on one area of the product development process whilst at Loughborough the BA in Industrial Design and Technology course takes you through the entire process; from a napkin drawing to building a working prototype and then on to marketing your solution. It all boosts your entrepreneurial spirit, the perfect degree for me.

I’m starting my Masters in Engineering Management soon, it will give me the skills and abilities to help lead and manage engineering facilities. One day I hope to be able to use this to start my own enterprises and businesses.

Leyland’s experience as a student

Studying at University was such a rollercoaster. Loughborough University really is a place that opens you up to so many opportunities. I did a placement year and I studied in Norway. I also joined 2 sports teams on campus - I never thought that would happen! Throughout my years at University I met some amazing people with all kinds of experiences and backgrounds and some will be lifelong friends. My time at University was also a difficult one. At the start of my final year I struggled a lot with my mental health and it started to affect my work, aspirations and social life. I did however get so much help and understanding from the University; they helped me through my final year and helped me get back to my normal self. It was great to have a helping hand to support me over a hurdle like that.

Leyland’s Career

I have just started my role as a Technical Project Engineer at a Plastic Injection Manufacturing Company. The role involves me learning and dealing with the commercial side of the family owned and run business. I liaise with customers, estimate cycle times, cost and efficiency ensuring both budgets and schedules are adhered to. I implement robotics and automation and introduce general improvements to post production processes.

After a long time applying for jobs in the traditional sense I started searching for local companies working in the industries and areas that I have always wanted to work in, drafting a letter and writing to them asking for an opportunity. Soon I got a response from my current employer who was keen to interview me as fast as possible. A few hours after the interview I logged on to my email to find a job offer!