Scholar Profile –
Matt

Electronics and the engineering behind it has always appealed to me ever since I built my first computer at a young age. The rapid expansion of the Electronics sector has allowed for things that were never thought possible to become everyday life, and that inspires me to make a positive impact on the world. It has always been my desire to create something that makes a significant change in the world for the better, and Electronics is the best way to make such a change as the possibilities are practically limitless.

I wanted to be sponsored by Leonardo for my scholarship due to the flexibility offered by the company, allowing me to move around and gain experience in different areas, such as hardware, text and firmware. This has helped me to expand my knowledge of the engineering life cycle and the industry in general.

During my time at Leonardo I developed a schematic design for a new product; this taught me how to use professional schematic software as well as expanding my knowledge of digital circuit design. I also began the PCB layout of the same design.

I have also assisted in testing the performance characteristics of an FPGA board in development, including writing up a test specification and testing the device for faults, this has helped to develop my practical skills in hardware and firmware debugging as well as with documentation. As a second year placement I also assisted with the Placement Project that first year placements undertake. My role was as an internal stakeholder and therefore I was responsible for giving advice and technical assistance to my placement team, this helped to improve my communication skills.

Outside of Engineering, I am an avid marksman at the university’s Rifle Club and regularly partake in both university and county level competitions. I am also an Officer Cadet in the university Air Squadron, which enables me to go flying and to go on various exciting adventure training expeditions!