Engineering practical skills with some very civil people

For Kay Mason, it has been an action-packed, fun-filled, opportunity-laden year gaining practical experience at the Port of Dover.

The Cardiff University student studying for a Civil Engineering degree has been able to get involved with a whole range of activities ranging from contracts and tenders to marine maintenance techniques and construction that have taken her on site within the hustle and bustle of a major international gateway.

Kay said: "I have really valued the unique on site experience of working at Europe's busiest ferry port at a time of incredible change and development. I have been able to get involved in an amazing variety of projects, including construction, within the buzz and activity of such a busy but friendly place. Thank you to everyone for giving me so many relevant opportunities that I simply could not get purely through academic study."

As well as the practical skills that Kay has developed, she has also benefitted from additional training opportunities through the Port's work with professional industry bodies such as the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and PIANC - the World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure.

Tim Waggott, Chief Executive, Port of Dover, said: "I am delighted that Kay has learnt so much during her time with us. We are passionate about giving young people the essential practical knowledge and skills that will support their academic study and bring them together in a way that will, I am sure, result in a very successful career for Kay."