Article: Engineering a Future in the Rail Sector – My placement year at DB ESG by Dylan Lamb
"When I first started looking for a placement year opportunity, I wasn’t sure which industry I wanted to go into, I certainly hadn’t considered a role in the rail sector. But after spending a year on an industry placement with DB ESG, I can confidently say it is the path for me. Joining DB ESG was one of the best decisions that I’ve made and has helped me decide what I want for my future – a career in rail!”
How did you discover DB ESG?
"I came across DB ESG through my university’s job site. The advert and role caught my eye, even though I hadn’t previously thought about working in rail. Curious, I started researching the industry and quickly realised how diverse, dynamic and innovative it is — especially with the push towards sustainability and modernisation.
After my first interview and learning more about DB ESG’s work, I was excited by the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with both cutting-edge technologies and legacy systems. As an electrical engineer, that variety was exactly what I was looking for. I wanted to gain as much experience as possible from my placement."
What has been your Role and Responsibilities with DB ESG?
"During my placement, I have worked as an electrical engineer, contributing to a wide range of projects. I was fortunate to be involved in both short-term tasks and longer-term projects, which gave me a well-rounded engineering experience.
I was also given a broader experience of the different parts of the Business, which gave me a good understanding of how an engineering consultancy works.
This mix of responsibilities allowed me to see how projects evolve over time and how different teams collaborate to bring solutions to life."
What skills and experience do you think that you have gained through this placement?
"My time at DB ESG has been incredibly valuable. I’ve developed both technical and professional skills that I know will benefit me in the future. Not only have I gained confidence in my communication, whether directly with suppliers, customers or colleagues, but I have learned how to manage my own time and responsibilities within a professional environment. I have also developed a good understanding of the systems involved in rolling stock operation, design and build. I have a lot of pride in the achievements I have made and how my technical knowledge and writing skills have developed over the year."
What have been your placement highlights?
"It is hard to choose just one highlight from this past year, because there have been so many rewarding experiences. I particularly enjoyed participating in locomotive surveys for our ETCS project, completing a door failure mode analysis and conducting EMC tests on battery chargers. A standout moment was being entrusted with leading my very own project, from developing the initial bid, to overseeing the final system production. I also played a key role in exploring innovative technologies to address a customer’s safety challenge, helping DB ESG identify potential solutions.
These experiences gave me a real sense of ownership and accomplishment, reinforcing the impact of my contributions to the organisation."
Great DB ESG Culture!
"I would also add that one of the things that I enjoyed most during my placement has been the company culture. DB ESG has an incredibly friendly and supportive atmosphere. Everyone I have worked with was approachable, willing to help, and happy to share their knowledge. Whether I needed technical advice or just a chat over coffee, there was always someone there. This is so important when you first start out and feel extremely unsure and inexperienced. I felt supported, cared for and valued by DB ESG."
What advice would you give to future placement students?
"If you’re starting a placement at DB ESG, my advice is simple: ask questions and be curious. The team is full of experts who are more than happy to help you learn — as long as you show a willingness to grow."
Looking ahead, what are your plans now?
"Before this placement, I hadn’t planned on a career in rail. But now, I’m hoping to return to the industry after I graduate. The variety, the innovation and the people have all made a lasting impression on me."
Interested in joining DB ESG for your placement year?
If you’re an engineering student looking for a placement that offers real responsibility, technical variety and a supportive team, DB ESG could be the perfect fit. Email us – careers@dbesg.com
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