Soil Machine Dynamics bolsters team through graduate scheme

A subsea robotics engineer has hailed the impact of a long-standing talent commitment after new faces strengthened its team.

Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD) has welcomed Liam Hunt and Supitcha Kaenhirun, who have joined the Wallsend firm through its graduate scheme.

The venture was founded more than a decade ago, and has helped a number of people forge careers with the business, which is known for subsea apparatus such as ploughs, trenchers and remotely-operated vehicles that are used on telecoms, oil and gas and renewable energy projects.

Supitcha, a University of Nottingham graduate, who has a master’s in mechanical engineering, said: “I was keen to expand my industry knowledge and gain some practical experience.

“And I’ve been given the opportunity to work across a diverse range of projects here, all of which have really facilitated my development.

“The best part is the support and encouragement I’ve been given by my colleagues.

“I’m provided with enough responsibility to grow my independence, while having the reassurance of a strong support system.”

Founded in 2011, the graduate scheme was developed by Rob Eddon, the firm’s key account manager.

He said: “I’m hugely proud of the opportunities we create for young people in the North East.

“I joined the team back in 2008, having completed an engineering and business degree at Northumbria University.

“I had a fantastic experience and wanted to share it with as many people as possible.”

Rebecca Dryden, the company’s HR advisor [pictured, above, centre, with Liam and Supitcha], added: “We pride ourselves on creating a culture of innovation and collaboration, and our graduate scheme is no exception.

“Our programme helps aspiring engineers discover their passion, enabling them to work across numerous departments or focus on their chosen discipline.”