Case studies : Electronics graduate scheme at Cat: Jon Hills

Jon joined Cat Electronics as a Systems Engineer in 2004 after studying a BSc (Hons) Music Technology & Audio System Design at University of Derby and an MSc (Dist) Advanced Electrical & Electronic Engineering at the University of Leicester.

I applied because I wanted the challenge of developing robust electronic systems for hostile environments. It didn’t take long to realise that of all the companies I’d applied to, none appeared to value their employees more than Caterpillar. It was the company spirit that impressed me most, which was first evident when communicating with the UK recruitment team.

I joined Cat Electronics in October 2004 and completed two placements on the graduate scheme, both in Systems Engineering roles. In the first I worked on the electronics for the C6.6 Tier 3 ACERT engine where I had responsibility for control system verification & validation activities. The second I worked on the Tier 3 Articulated Truck programme, where I had responsibility for system development activities for electro-hydraulic, transmission and cab display features. I completed my graduate training in July 2006 and have taken a permanent role in electronic component development for the C6.6 Tier 4 next generation diesel engine, where I’m responsible for specifying requirements for the electronic hardware.

The biggest highlight so far, was working on the Articulated Truck programme and testing machine-control software by driving a selection of 700-series trucks round a disused quarry. Driving a 35ft long machine with 6ft wheels up and down steep slopes is definitely an experience to remember. Another highlight was taking responsibility for the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing of the C6.6 engine. The testing involved some interesting things, including simulating the effects of lightning strikes and of beaming high power radio waves at the engine, while it was running at rated speed and under load.

Caterpillar encourages you to own your own learning, but is prepared to make the investment to get the best training for you. The most valuable training courses I’ve completed are project management, failure modes & effects analysis (FMEA) and 6-Sigma DMAIC green belt. I’ve also completed a number of online technical training courses. However, the majority of the training I’ve received has been on the job, as required for completing particular project activities. If this doesn’t cover your needs, you’re expected to have the initiative to recognise a need for training and approach your Manager and the Learning Team. If you feel you need greater skills in a particular area and it adds value to your role then you’ll get the support you need.

The most important skill I’ve developed is effective problem solving. I’ve had to develop a strong appreciation for real-world problems that can occur in development, which are rarely considered in small-scale ideal systems studied at University. I’ve had to pursue and resolve issues caused by complex system interactions between prototype components and software, where the effects are often intermittent and seemingly random. It’s been good to learn a structured & efficient approach through experience, which I’m now able to apply to component development and remove the potential for similar issues in the future.

My time working at Cat has been a constant challenge, but I’ve appreciated this and done my best to deliver a good quality standard of work. The team atmosphere is excellent, it’s relaxed and friendly, but you can feel a positive pressure to deliver at the same time. It’s exactly the right combination for a productive working environment. I’ve felt like a valued member of the team since I started, even though the team works to such a high standard. There’s also a great social atmosphere on-site and it’s really easy to quickly meet a large number of people and make new friends.

My advice to anyone appling to Cat would be to relax and be yourself, as personality will go a long way in deciding who gets the job. I imagine on paper my technical skills were probably no better than other candidates, but I demonstrated my personality was right for the team. If you don’t get offered the job, try not to feel too disheartened, more than likely Cat wasn’t the company for you.

My time at Caterpillar has been hectic, but I’ve really enjoyed it. There’s plenty of flexibility in personalising your role and you’ll have support in getting involved with particular activities you may feel drawn to. The atmosphere of the department is what really makes the place special. If you want to be a part of this you should definitely apply.

Following the graduate scheme, I joined the C4.4-C7.1 engine programme (Tier 4 Interim), where I was on the core engine electronic system team for 3.5 years, allowing me to see it through from Launch to Pilot Production (close to a complete product life cycle). My role evolved throughout the programme, but for the final 6 months I was leading a small team of Engineers focussing on hardware systems validation. There was also the opportunity to travel; we went out to Mossville, U.S twice as we had some significant challenges and needed to focus on collaboration with the right people to find solutions. It was a worldwide development, emphasising the global nature of the company.

I moved into my current role 6 months ago where I relocated and now spend the majority of my time working with Building Construction Products Division in Leicester, but still reporting to Cat Electronics business unit. I’m working on the new F-Series Backhoe Loader machine programme, which goes to production in 2012. In this new role I’m working on electronic systems integration, which has been a steep learning curve, but has been quite interesting in that we’ve had some unique problems to solve. I’m also benefitting from the ‘hands on’ culture of the Leicester business, where I’ve spent a lot of time recently working in support of commissioning new prototype machines. I’m planning to continue in a technical role for the near future to build a solid foundation, but with the experience gained now I will soon be looking to progress and take on additional responsibilities.