Kevin Patel, 26 civil engineer,

BEng (Hons) Civil & Structural Engineering

When and why did you join Royal Haskoning?
I joined Royal Haskoning in 2001, there was an attractive salary and golden hello on offer. I wanted to join a multi-disciplinary consultancy and Royal Haskoning seemed the best choice. In addition the staff were really friendly and welcoming.

As a graduate, what key factors have been beneficial to your personal and professional development?
Since joining Royal Haskoning I have become more confident, motivated and organised. I am shortly due to sit my ICE Chartered Professional Review. The training scheme has helped me develop my career in a structured fashion. The company promotes staff training and boasts a wide variety of work, so I've had a broad range of experience in a relatively short period of time.

What sort of projects have you been involved in?
All sorts really. I've done a lot of work in bridge inspections and assessments travelling all over the UK. I've designed roads and highway structures, and am now more involved in structural design of buildings. Recently I spent six months on site, as resident engineer for the construction of a bulk cargo storage facility in the north-east of England.

What's best about Royal Haskoning?
The people who work for us are professional and very knowledgeable yet still very friendly and approachable and keen to help wherever they can. The Sports and Social scene is great too. Whether its playing 5-a-side football on Thursday nights, organised social events or just meeting up for a beer at the weekend, there's something for everyone to get involved in.