Growth through innovation and collaboration – My placement story

We were delighted to welcome Aoife O Brien to Strata for her internship as part of her Master’s in Engineering at University College Dublin. Before returning to complete her studies, Aoife shared her reflections on her time with us and the valuable experiences she gained during her Strata journey

What attracted you to apply for a placement with Strata?
I was drawn to Strata’s modern approach and its use of innovative digital technology to streamline construction projects. The emphasis on data-driven problem solving and digital collaboration really stood out. I also appreciated the diversity of projects and sectors the company is involved in, both in Ireland and internationally, offering a unique opportunity to gain broad industry exposure.
What really attracted me was the chance to work with a team that values innovation, mentorship, and continuous improvement. I saw Strata as a place where I could apply my academic knowledge, grow professionally, and contribute to meaningful projects that reflect the future of construction planning.

What kind of projects or tasks were you involved in?
My internship began with scope and measure tasks, allowing me to collaborate across different project teams and contribute to projects ranging from data centres to residential and commercial builds. I produced weekly progress reports for a live site, using software to track and compare actual progress against planned activities. A highlight of my internship was also the opportunity to participate in the ‘I Wish’ event, where I spoke to young female school students about careers in STEM, a truly rewarding experience.

What new skills or knowledge have you gained?
I developed strong technical skills in Primavera P6, Bluebeam, and a variety of other software, gaining hands-on experience in scheduling, drawing mark-ups, and data analysis. My communication skills improved significantly, especially in engaging with diverse client and Strata teams. Observing a fit-out phase from start to finish gave me valuable insight into construction sequencing and the real-world impact of delays, reinforcing the importance of strong communication and also adaptability.

How would you describe the working environment and culture?
Strata is a young, dynamic, and international company with respect and equality at its core. As it is a smaller organisation, I was able to gain valuable exposure to all levels of the business and was given opportunities to learn from very experienced engineers. I found every team member to be approachable and generous with their knowledge, and this really helped to accelerate learning and build confidence.

What advice would you give to other students considering a placement here?
Go for it. Strata is an ideal place to gain hands-on experience in a collaborative and growth-focused setting. You’ll be surrounded by people who are eager to help you learn and succeed. If you’re looking for a placement that combines innovation, support, and real impact, Strata is the place to be.