A 6-Month Journey as a Graduate Engineer at WES in the Water Industry

February 13, 2024

We asked our Graduate Engineer, Jalen, to give a review of his first 6 months with WES. Here was his take:

I am thrilled to share my journey as a Graduate Engineer at WES over the past six months. Join me as I reflect on the challenges, growth, and incredible experiences in the dynamic world of the water industry.

Background: WES, a leading player in the water sector, has been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Joining the team as a fresh graduate was an opportunity I eagerly embraced, and little did I know that the water industry would prove to be a catalyst in shaping my early career.

Initial Challenges: The first few months were a whirlwind of learning and adapting. From understanding the intricate water treatment processes to diving into the sales, and managing customer’s and supplier’s needs, the challenges were thrilling and demanding. However, the robust support system at WES, coupled with the “servant leadership programme” from the wider team, ensured a smooth transition into the professional realm.

Professional Growth: My role has allowed me to work on diverse projects, each presenting unique engineering and clientele challenges. Whether it’s optimising water treatment processes, implementing sustainable solutions, or addressing infrastructure concerns, the opportunities to learn have been abundant. The collaborative environment at WES has fostered an atmosphere of continuous improvement, pushing me to think critically and innovate in the face of real-world challenges.

Adaptability in a Dynamic Industry: The water industry is constantly evolving, driven by technological advancements, (where WES is already at the forefront) and the imperative to address environmental concerns. WES has provided me with exposure to cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, fostering adaptability and a forward-thinking mindset. The industry’s dynamic nature has allowed me to embrace change as an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Future Prospects: As I look ahead, the water industry promises many exciting opportunities. The blend of environmental consciousness, engineering innovation, and societal impact makes it an ideal space for aspiring professionals. I am eager to continue contributing to WES’s mission of playing a fundamental role in improving the quality of water for communities across the UK.

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Les Bunce

Hire Business Manager

Les Bunce is Hire Business Manager. He leads the WES Hire Business responsible for managing the supply of our Temporary Chemical Dosing hire fleet on both a planned and emergency basis. Les has over 25 years’ experience in the hire industry and fully understands our customers’ hire requirements.

Patrick Fisher

Projects Director

Patrick Fisher is Projects Director. He leads the business stream responsible for project management, design, engineering, manufacture and delivery of “Capital project” chemical dosing systems. A degree qualified engineer with over 10 years’ experience working in fluid delivery solutions to the water, general industrial, petrochemical, and food & beverage industries.

Bob Cook

Senior Proposals Manager

Bob Cook is Senior Proposals Manager. After completing a traditional engineering apprenticeship at the Royal Aircraft Establishment, Bob was one of the original partners who started the business in 1986. Bob now applies his considerable experience to developing proposals & solutions to meet customer requirements, as well as providing technical support & passing on knowledge & expertise to colleagues across the wider WES business.

Ian Price

Dosing Products Business Manager

Ian Price is WES Dosing Products Business Manager, leading the business stream responsible for delivering a wide range of standardised chemical dosing packages, ad-hoc dosing needs and ‘off the shelf’ dosing products & solutions. A mechanical engineer with over 20 years’ experience in fluid handling solutions into the water, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and food & beverage markets.

Jamie Cole

Operations Director

Jamie Cole is Operations Director. Jamie joined the business in 2018 bringing career long experience in a variety of operational roles – including service delivery to the property and utilities sectors. Jamie is responsible for the management of all operational activities of the business including the repair, maintenance & refurbishment business stream, and our site installation and workshop manufacturing teams. Jamie also forms part of the senior management team of WES.

Graham Ward

Business Development Director

Graham Ward is Sales and Marketing Director. His extensive experience includes a number of senior roles working for various SMEs and large organisations in the water, power generation, petrochemical, marine and food & beverage industries. As a qualified marine engineer, Graham has established his career in Sales and Business Development and is responsible for the business development, marketing and sales of systems, products and services across WES.

Carl Millington

Non-Exec Director

Carl joined WES as Non-Exec chairman following an appointment via the Business Growth Service to assist the business with growth strategy. A highly experienced Business Mentor, Coach, Managing Director & Non-Exec Chairman, having led product, manufacturing, contracting and service provider businesses for nearly 30 years. A strong track record of market, sales and profit growth within a diverse range of sectors.

Core competencies include business growth strategies, board & business leadership, strategic planning, sales & marketing management, P&L & balance sheet management, acquisitions, divestments, outsourcing, TUPE transfer, mentoring & coaching.

Kevin Wheeler

Managing Director

Kevin Wheeler is Managing Director. Kevin trained as an Engineer at the Royal Aircraft Establishment and joined the business in 1989. Kevin now leads the Board of Directors setting strategy and defining priorities to meet the business objectives & growth aspirations whilst adding experience to technical issues where required.