Ryan Usher, from the LMB’s Electronics Workshop, and Chris Palmer, from the LMB’s Mechanical Workshop, have completed degree studies alongside their work. As part of the LMB Workshops, their jobs consist of designing and building bespoke equipment based on research needs, often in collaboration with each other. The LMB supported their studies as part of its pledge as a signatory of the Technician Commitment. Here, they share their motivations and experiences of coordinating their university studies with full-time work.
Which degree did you study?
Chris Palmer (CP): I studied a BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering. I did it on day-release at West Suffolk University, so every week I worked four days at the LMB and one day I was at the University.
Ryan Usher (RU): Mine was a Bachelor of Science at the Open University, all online. I chose a flexible option, which allowed me to pick modules focused on electronics and software engineering.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree?
CP: I did my apprenticeship some years ago. When I joined the LMB part of the job description was to study a Higher National Certificate (HNC) and after that the natural progression was the HND and degree.
RU: I had done the HNC and when I joined the LMB, we agreed that I could spend the next four years to top that up and turn it into a degree.
What have you gained from it?
Both: We acquired formal and theoretical skills that we could apply in the real world, in our employment. We also developed time management and organisational skills and learned “how to learn” as well!
How was coordinating your studies with your job?
RU: It involved a lot of work on the weekends and the evenings. However, the LMB allowed me one day a week either at home or in the Workshop to study, and it made all the difference, it really helped getting it done with less stress. The University was really flexible so I could adapt my schedule depending on the work.
CP: Mine was more structured, we had lessons scheduled every week and it involved a lot of work and self-study in the evenings and weekends. The LMB supported me throughout this process.
Would you recommend it to others?
RU: Yes, I would. You are still in employment so you can immediately use the skills you learn. But at the same time, you are getting paid a full-time salary so you don’t get out with a big student loan.
CP: I would recommend it too. But if someone is going to do it, they need to be prepared to put the hours into it!
Further references:
Technicians make it happen
LMB Workshops
Technicians David Street and Andy Mace achieve Professional Registration
Professional registration and awards: Celebrating the Technician’s Commitment at the LMB