Mainer returns to Manchester Metropolitan University to help inspire the next graduates
Dan Coupland recently returned to Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) to represent Mainer Associates at a careers and alumni event. Having graduated MMU and the Mainer Academy, Dan let us know how he got on.
Written by
Dan Coupland
Sustainability Consultant
To contact please email:
dan.coupland@mainer.co.uk
The path from Graduating to Employability
Recently, I was warmly welcomed back to Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), where I completed my Undergraduate Geography degree, to be a part of a careers and alumni event, hosted by the department of natural sciences.
The event was organised to help 2nd and 3rd year Geography and Environmental Science students gain advice from employers and alumni, to help with their employability prospects after graduating. The employers panel consisted of Arup, The Environment Partnership (TEP), National Highways and The Carbon Literacy Project.
I graduated in May 2022, and as part of a third-year undergraduate consultancy module we collaborated with a client from an environmental/ecological background.
My client was Ben Wells, who is the Managing Director at Mainer Associates, fellow alumnus of MMU and someone who is passionate about Sustainability.
Where academic studies meets practical experience
Bens practical and academic experience provided a great resource as I worked to produce a report on the just transition to a low carbon economy. Following the successful completion of the report, Ben offered me a paid 12-month placement, via the Mainer Academy, as soon as I graduated, and I am now employed full time at the company.
Mainers’ unique relationship with the MMU allowed a distinct path straight from university into a career for someone who wished to work hard, embrace a broad & diverse network, and make the most of the opportunities which come your way. I spoke to the 2nd and 3rd year students about this, highlighting the importance of reaching out and establishing a rapport with hiring managers, or employees of the company you are looking to gain employment in.
Going back to MMU and collaborating with the university, and the students in this setting, is not only beneficial to students, but also to Mainer, as it allows us to communicate with the next generation of sustainable professionals, and engage with the best prospects, at a crucial time of their university career.
Aside the alumni event, I had the pleasure of working with third year students on the undergraduate consultancy unit which I completed as an undergraduate. However, this time I returned with Ben Wells as a client myself, uniquely allowing me to help my group of students to succeed within the unit and providing advice and support to fulfil their career ambitions, from the lived experience of someone who gained employment via the unit.
The importance of gaining Industry Experience
It was great to listen other alumnus who were in attendance, about their career paths, and to understand what tips and advice they had for the students to help maximise their employability once graduated.
One of the key takeaways for me was from the employers panel, who all agreed that having enthusiasm and passion for a job sector or role, is extremely important and should not be overlooked, especially if students are applying for jobs which they may not fit all the desired criteria – the desire to learn is valued highly.
When speaking with the students, I emphasised the importance of gaining industry experience whilst at university, potentially during the summer between 2nd and 3rd year. I think having something like this on your C.V, even if not directly related to your potential career path, demonstrates you are willing to understand how the working world works, and shows your commitment to following a career path, for example.
What next?
In conclusion, I really enjoyed the afternoon and hope that some of the advice I gave to the students will be of help to them in gaining employment. I look forward to continuing our relationships with MMU and reconnecting with the student body, something to which Mainer are committed to.
We are also proud to announce that, following last year’s 3rd year undergraduate consultancy module, a new graduate consultant, Mark Owen-Phillips has enrolled into the Mainer Academy, demonstrating Mainers continued partnership with MMU in giving graduates invaluable experience and much sought after employment.
If you wish to learn more about the Mainer Academy, please see the following link: Celebrating our Mainer Academy Success Stories — Mainer Associates
To talk to Mainer Associates about any of the issues raised in the article,
please feel free to get in touch here
Please click below for more information on Mainer’s Services:
LCA
EIA
BREEAM
Building Physics
Fitwel
Scope 3 Emissions
Planning Statements
ESG