Name - Rachael Sims
Role - Graduate Geologist
Joined - 2022
My name is Rachael Sims, I studied BSc Geology at the University of Southampton, and MSc Mining Geology at Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter. During my master’s year I secured the Graduate Geologist role at Tarmac and started this soon after graduating in September 2022.
How and why you joined Tarmac?
I saw the job advertised in a student newsletter and thought it sounded interesting, I knew the brand name of Tarmac but didn’t know what the geology team specifically did. Through the process of applying, I became more familiar with the department, and I got excited about the kind of work I could get involved with. I was also drawn to the structure of the graduate scheme so felt like it would give me a very comprehensive overview of the wider business, whilst also developing my soft skills and providing networking opportunities.
What has your experience been like? What placements?
The experience I have gained in the last 2 years has been great! I have had lots of opportunities to get involved with very live projects and take a lead on some of these. My placements have had a focus on geology, with periods spent within geology teams from; Strategic Planning, Cement and Lime, Marine, National Exploration, Technical Services, and Operations.
Everyone I have met is willing to take the time and help educate you. There is also a wide variety of project and tasks to get involved with.
What are you most proud of?
I felt proud when I can see how my understanding has evolved. For example, we have regular Quarry Planning Review meetings with our quarries, it took me a while to be able to sit through the 3hr long meeting and understand what was being said and be able to contribute meaningfully, but it felt like a real milestone when I got to that point. Each one of our ~100 quarries is completely unique, so getting to the point of fully understanding a site is a nice feeling. I also felt very proud when I was invited to deliver a talk to the incoming graduates about managing their mental health as they transition into the work for the first time for many. It is a topic I hadn’t spoken about before, but I felt very supported and had great feedback from everyone.
What do you want to do next?
After my graduate scheme, I am hoping to stay within the wider geology department and eventually get my chartership.
