Raheemat Ijaiya

How have your technical skills developed throughout SYSTRA’s graduate programme?

My technical skills have grown immensely within the first 3 months of joining SYSTRA. Upon joining the company, I was provided with a list of several platforms used by the company for graduates to learn and practise soft and hard skills. I had the opportunity to take several competency tests at the beginning, and upon completion of numerous lessons, I am proud to say that the following competency test increased by over 88% progress, which was also aided by the hands-on practise of projects happening in real-time.

How have you grown personally since embarking on a graduate programme?

Joining SYSTRA’s graduate programme has profoundly influenced my approach to problem solving. I have encountered lots of challenges and setback which naturally comes with a role like this, however the connected teams at SYSTRA provide continuous support. Each obstacle I overcome is an opportunity for personal growth, teaching me the invaluable lessons of resilience, determination and the limitless potential within myself.

What advice would you offer to someone who’s unsure if a graduate programme is right for them?

SYSTRA is committed to providing an exceptional learning environment for graduates. From day one you will find yourself immersed in a dynamic and supportive atmosphere, where continuous development is not just encouraged, but actively cultivated. SYSTRA provides regular support, mentorship, access to experienced professionals, engaging activities, professional and safety trainings, engaging tasks, and great knowledge on inclusivity. From hands-on projects to team-based initiatives, every moment at SYSTRA is filled with opportunities to learn and apply your skills in real-world scenarios.

I would advise anyone who is seeking a dynamic, supportive and engaging environment, to take the leap and embark on this exciting journey. You will find that the graduate programme at SYSTRA is an incredible opportunity for growth.

How does SYSTRA stand out as a great place to work?

SYSTRA values the voice of every individual, which makes it a great place to work. The company provides a conducive environment for everyone and acknowledges individual differences. This promotes awareness, inclusivity and comfort for all.

What’s your favourite thing about your job right now?

I have several I could mention, however something that stands out is the professional support provided by the company that aligns with my career path of becoming a Chartered Engineer. The job has provided numerous mentoring opportunities and lots of constructive feedback on the chartership path, thus making me very focused and confident.

Diversity is powerful. What unique perspective do you offer as a graduate at SYSTRA?

As a graduate, I bring a unique perspective rooted in my diverse background and experiences. Growing up in a multicultural environment has shaped my worldview and instilled in me a deep appreciation for different perspectives. My ability to navigate and thrive in diverse settings allows me to approach challenges with creativity and empathy. I am committed to contributing to a rich and inclusive work environment, leveraging my unique perspective to drive innovation and foster collaboration.

What would an entirely green future look like? How should our industry contribute?

An entirely green future would entail sustainable systems invested in solving challenges with minimal carbon emissions and environmental impact. Our contribution as a leading engineering and consultancy company lies in promoting eco-friendly mobility solutions and integrating them into our designs. By prioritising sustainability and integrating green practices into our projects, we can help pave the way towards a cleaner, greener future.

You can spend your lunchbreak with anyone you admire – who would you choose?

If I could spend my lunchbreak with anyone I admire, I would choose Oprah Winfrey without hesitation. Her remarkable journey from being an anchor, to having her own personal talk show, shows great strength. She has an intense, powerful belief in herself that played a pivotal role in growing her career as a woman from the black community. I would relish the opportunity to learn from her insights, soak in her wisdom, and perhaps even share a moment of laughter and inspiration over lunch. A big takeaway from her is knowing that everything begins with a thought. Thoughts are the biggest vehicles towards success.

What is your next big career goal?

My next big career goal would be to take on a leadership role within my field, such as becoming a Senior Engineer or Project Manager specialising in highway and railway design and safety. This will involve leading larger-scale projects, mentoring junior team members, and making strategic contributions to growth and success. Additionally, I aim to further specialise and expand my expertise in several aspects of highway and railway design, positioning myself as a recognised expert in the field.

What excites you about your career future?

What excites me most about my career future is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the field of highway and railway design and safety. I am passionate about contributing to the development of sustainable and efficient transportation infrastructure that enhances safety and connectivity for communities. The prospect of tackling new challenges, innovating solutions, and continuously learning and growing my expertise, fills me with excitement and anticipation for the journey ahead.