Following a full-time industry placement, Balfour Beatty have welcomed Robert Gordon University (RGU) student, Frank Matini, to their team based at their Westhill office in Aberdeenshire.
Frank has joined the commercial team working on projects connected to SSEN Transmission’s Netherton Hub development near Peterhead, which was recently given planning consent by Aberdeenshire Council.
The development is a key component of the Perth-headquartered company’s £22bn+ investment programme and is part of a wider renewal of the electricity transmission system across Great Britain that is required to enable the homegrown low-carbon electricity needed to deliver clean power and energy security targets.
Frank’s original industry placement was arranged as part of the RGU Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management Programme which encourages students to undertake industrial placements. He is now set to move into his fourth year of studies, which he will undertake alongside his part-time employment with Balfour Beatty.
Frank said: “Having the opportunity to join Balfour Beatty during a crucial Pre-Construction stage has so far led to an exposure on the early stages of project development and all the obstacles faced to ensure successful project delivery. To date, I have gained an insight into cost planning and procurement strategies which has led to valuable hands-on experience and helped me understand the importance of accurate forecasting and effective communication. This experience has strengthened my technical knowledge and I’ll be looking to apply what I’ve learnt to future studies.”
Frank Matini
Mike Hammond, Head of Commercial, Balfour Beatty continued: “It’s been great having Frank join us. Industry placements give students a chance to see how things work day-to-day, and for us, it’s a chance to support someone who’s building their future in the industry. It brings a different perspective to the team and adds real value to the work we’re doing."
Balfour Beatty currently employs over 1,900 staff across Scotland and upcoming energy infrastructure works being delivered on behalf of SSEN Transmission in the North-east of Scotland will see the business increase considerably over the years ahead. You can find out more about the new Netherton Hub projects on the SSEN Transmission website: Netherton Hub - SSEN Transmission.
Dr Michelle Victoria, Course Leader, Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management, RGU, said: "Industry placements are an integral part of the Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management course at RGU, highly valued by our students. It is crucial for students to have the opportunity to see their learning applied in practice, enhancing their overall learning experience. Industrial placements offer a comprehensive view of the job, teaching students work ethics and people skills in addition to the key technical competencies which in turn helps build their confidence to face the industry in a supportive environment."
Darren Main, SSEN Transmission’s Deputy Project Director for the Netherton Hub project, said: “We’re delighted that Balfour Beatty has provided Frank with this opportunity to gain valuable experience as part of the team involved in the Netherton Hub, which will play a key role in connecting onshore and offshore projects that are vital in achieving national energy security and clean power targets.
“One of the many benefits of our investment to upgrade the high-voltage electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland is the opportunities it gives people to study, train, and develop their careers by gaining knowledge of the delivery of major infrastructure projects.
“Our ambitious future investment plans will support up to 8,400 jobs in the north of Scotland, boosting the economy of the region by as much as £3bn. Not only will this support the local workforce and businesses in communities across the north of Scotland, but it is also a key driver of opportunity for those with ambitions for a career in the clean energy sector, providing real-world training that is enabling them to thrive.”