Name: Eduwaina Ebodaghe (known as Eddie)
Age: 32
Where are you from? Nigeria, West Africa.
Where do you live? I live in Manchester.
Qualifications and where studied? Maintenance Engineering and Asset Management (Msc) The University of Manchester. Corrosion Control Engineering (Post Graduate Study) The University of Manchester. Chemical Engineering (Bsc) University of Port-Harcourt.
What is your job? Graduate Integrity Engineering for EM&I Alliance
What does it involve? Risk based inspection, a process of risk assessment and management that focuses on equipment failure initiated by material deterioration. It is controlled basically through equipment and structured inspection. My job includes many activities, including data collection, risk screening, report delivery and site visits.
Why did you choose your career in the oil and gas industry? Working in the oil and gas industry has been one of my dreams. This dream becoming a reality has enabled me to enhance both my engineering and computer skills. Working with colleagues of various nationalities has broadened my cultural knowledge as well as improving my adaptation skills. Finally becoming a member of a company in the oil and gas industry allows me to have my own contribution to the industry and global economy.
How did you education help prepare you? Education has been an incredible experience that taught me the habit of studying, discipline, commitment, extensive knowledge of the world, and the technical skills required to begin my career path as an engineer. Work experience has shown me how to render quality service delivery through consistent practice and expanded my understanding concerning a variety of responsibilities involved.
Did you experience any culture shock coming to study in the UK and then also when you began your job? Yes I did experience culture shock when I first arrived to the UK to study. I was very excited as this long term plan had finally become a reality. I was uncertain about being alone in a foreign country as I thought it could be disorienting as the system was not familiar.
The academic help team provided orientation about the academic system, the dos and don’ts and other aspects of the city as well, which was very helpful. I noticed there was a huge difference from the way things are done in developing countries and in the developed world. The way people speak and dress, the food, social roles, the style of learning and lots more. One huge aspect was the climate. Getting used to the weather has been very difficult for me and I of course really missed my family back home.
As time passed I began to adjust to my new environment and tried to understand every aspect of it. However cultural change has made me more aware of some aspects of my old culture and the new culture. I believe this has provided valuable skills that would assist in various ways both at present and in the future .
I looked forward to my first graduate job in the UK with so much excitement but with a bit of nervousness too. On arrival at my workplace at EM&I I had a warm welcome from every member of staff which eased my worries. With the support and training provided I look forward to work everyday and I am happy to take up additional tasks which enhance my development and make a contribution to my organisation.
What has motivated you in your career to date? Being passionate about my career makes me seek new and improved ways of service delivery.
Where do you see your career going? Growing within a company where I am able to take additional responsibilities, a leadership position, and being supportive to upcoming graduates and everyone.
What advice would you give to others looking to get into the oil and gas industry? My advice is to have a scientific mind, be passionate about personal development, have a desire to improve your skills, knowledge and have the ability to handle unexpected challenges.
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