Emma Robinson, a participant in Nestlé’s graduate program since last September, highlights the creativity in engineering, contrary to common perceptions. Operating from the Nestlé Product Technology Centre in York, which serves as the company’s hub for confectionery research and development, Emma and her team innovate on products like KitKat, crafting new ideas and turning them into reality.
Specializing in designing and fabricating custom equipment for Nestlé’s factories, particularly in the realm of chocolate, Emma, 24, embraces the plethora of opportunities to indulge in chocolate as part of her work routine.
Nestlé’s comprehensive graduate schemes span various domains such as engineering, technical leadership, sales, and HR, offering a two-year period for candidates to explore diverse roles within the company. Emma, eager to broaden her expertise, looks forward to her upcoming assignment at Nestlé’s Buxton facility, where she will delve into water-related projects, anticipating that her exposure to different product lines will enhance her engineering skills.
Driven by her passion for chemistry nurtured during her academic years, Emma pursued a master’s degree in chemical engineering before embarking on Nestlé’s graduate program, attracted by the promise of personal and professional growth within the organization.
Amidst the dynamic environment at Nestlé, Emma’s daily routine varies significantly, oscillating between assisting in pilot plant operations, conceptualizing designs using 3D modeling software, and developing process diagrams. Reflecting on her progress over the past ten months, Emma acknowledges the invaluable support and mentorship she has received from her colleagues, emphasizing the importance of a nurturing work environment in her rapid skill development.
While Emma’s primary goal is to successfully complete the graduate program and secure a permanent role at Nestlé, she remains dedicated to promoting STEM education, particularly among young girls, by engaging in outreach activities to inspire the next generation of innovators.
In addition to the stimulating work environment and the thrill of seeing products on store shelves, Emma values the collaborative ethos at Nestlé, underscoring the enriching interactions with diverse colleagues as a highlight of her experience with the company.