Michelle Hicks
"I am the Co-owner and Executive Producer at Firefly Creations and we specialise in the design of attractions for theme parks, resorts and other destinations. It has always been a goal of mine to work in this industry and the course at Surrey gave me a great grounding both technically and commercially."
Course
Civil Engineering MEngGraduation year
2014What made you choose to study civil engineering at Surrey?
The industry focus was a key factor as well as the encouragement to complete a Professional Training year. The opportunity to be sponsored by a company through the Surrey/ICE Scholarship was a great bonus, providing the chance to gain experience in between studying and really hit the ground running on graduation. Combined with the friendly campus and environment I knew Surrey was the place for me.
What is your strongest memory of your time here?
There was such a fantastic sense of community in civil engineering and the first thing that comes to mind is the collaborative working, both with other students as well as staff. From multidisciplinary design projects to field trips and site visits, working together so closely built a real sense of camaraderie and team effort. And of course, when the hard work was complete there was always time to celebrate our success!
What were the best things about your course?
The mixture of academic learning combined with real industry applications really strengthened the value of the materials on the course through a combination of lectures, labs and practical work. Combined with industrial placements, this made the transition into work on graduation seamless so I could focus on building my understanding of the industry and the areas I enjoy most within the profession.
"If you are looking for a place to stretch yourself academically and flourish both as an individual and team player, I couldn’t recommend the civil engineering course at Surrey more."
What do you do now? What do you find most enjoyable about it?
I am the Co-owner and Executive Producer at Firefly Creations and we specialise in the design of attractions for theme parks, resorts and other destinations. It has always been a goal of mine to work in this industry and the course at Surrey gave me a great grounding both technically and commercially. I enjoy being able to work with a huge variety of professionals ranging from architects and engineers to artists and composers, applying my knowledge to create destinations people can enjoy for many years to come.
How did your time at Surrey help you choose what career to go into?
I decided to study civil engineering because I’ve always had a passion for theme parks and roller coasters and wanted to get involved in their design. I knew from the experience I gained during my summer placements and Professional Training year that I enjoyed working as part of a design team developing projects from concept to reality. Now, being able to lead teams working on large projects allows me to apply my civil engineering knowledge to create amazing rides and attractions.
How a theme park ride comes to life: from design to the finished attraction!
How a theme park ride comes to life: from design to the finished attraction!
How a theme park ride comes to life: from design to the finished attraction!
How a theme park ride comes to life: from design to the finished attraction!
How a theme park ride comes to life: from design to the finished attraction!
What is your advice for students aspiring to work in your profession?
Keep your eyes open to the opportunities around you and follow your interests and you will be unstoppable! As students entering the industry you have the opportunity to be at the forefront of technology and apply new innovations in exciting new ways. You are the future leaders so never be afraid to offer up new ideas as this could be the catalyst that creates an industry changing project or product.
What impression has Surrey made on you?
Even now Surrey feels like home and I continue to work with the School of Sustainability, Civil and Environmental Engineering as a member of the Industrial Advisory Board. Through my studies and into my career, the Surrey team have never failed to support me and for that I am forever grateful. If you are looking for a place to stretch yourself academically and flourish both as an individual and team player, I couldn’t recommend the civil engineering course at Surrey more.
Find out more about our BEng/MEng Civil Engineering.
