Name: Walter O’Brien-Gilbert

Degree obtained: Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Oil & Gas Engineering

Current role: Project Engineer


How did you discover your current role?
I first discovered the subsea engineering industry in my previous career as a trainee engineer working with linepipe. I then decided to return to university to add a Masters in Oil & Gas Engineering to my Mechanical Engineering degree. Whilst in university, I saw an advertisement for Subsea 7 and applied to their graduate training scheme.

Why did you choose Subsea 7?
I applied to a number of graduate training schemes after completing my Masters degree and was even offered a job in Angola and Nigeria. However, I decided to join Subsea 7 as their scheme was more structured than competitors and offered a clear career development path.
I particularly liked the idea of spending time in different areas of the business before having to decide where I wanted to specialise.

What training have you received since joining?
On joining the graduate training scheme there were a number of presentations about the business, the different disciplines within the company and clarification of what graduates should expect from the scheme. I also received formal training on company software programmes, as well as full support towards gaining Chartered status.

There’s plenty of on-the-job training as well as all graduates are given a real job with real responsibility from day one. I’ve enjoyed having designated supervisors looking after me on each of my placements, as well as having a mentor who has supported me throughout the scheme.

What has been your biggest achievement on the scheme so far?
In my third month I was part of a team working on a project for Shell. The project was based in Nigeria, and I’m quite knowledgeable about this part of the world, so I was asked to put together a report on the logistical and cultural challenges that the project might face and assist in developing a project execution plan. It was great to make such a real and direct contribution to the project, and even better to fly out to Nigeria and advise the client directly.

Describe the culture?
‘The people are the best’. I really mean that. It makes it so easy to come to work when you know there are no ‘barriers’ and that people will take the time to help you and never say, “You should know that.”

How do you see your career developing at Subsea 7?
After finishing my placements, which will be a continual learning curve for the next three years, I intend to become a Chartered Engineer and then a Senior Project Engineer. From there I’m keen to get an MBA qualification and possibly move into management with Subsea 7.