Idris Ahmed

 What does your role in Kingspan involve? 

As an Engineering Trainee at Vicwest, part of Kingspan, I support the structural design of our built up wall and roof systems, as well as our insulated panel products. My work includes conducting engineering reviews in light gauge steel design. This includes calculating wind and snow loads, checking panel spanning capacity, and designing supporting steel members in insulated wall and roof systems. A key focus is ensuring proper sealing as part of the building envelope. I also help develop technical design guides and installation guidelines that make our panels and systems easier for our customers to use. 

What is the most interesting project you have been involved in since you joined? 

The most interesting project since joining was updating old install guidelines for our triple standing seam roof systems. It’s our most complex systems because the panels can span without needing a solid surface below like plywood. I helped updating it to current practices and drafted new details in AutoCAD. The project gave me the chance to take part in trainings with a long-time installer and drafter, whose expertise really accelerated my learning. 

What prompted you to apply to Kingspan? 

I was attracted to Kingspan because it seemed like an innovative company working on products that play an important role in the construction industry. The opportunity to join a global company through a structured graduate program was appealing because it offered the chance to work on real projects, learn from experienced team members, and continue developing my professional skills. It also seemed like a great environment for recent graduates to build confidence and grow early in their careers. 

What was your experience of the Kingspan graduate recruitment process? 

The graduate recruitment process was unique. I particularly liked the interactive mini task based assessment and the group assessment centre. They were both different from other interview processes I had experienced and felt much more engaging. The group assessment felt more like a natural discussion rather than a formal 1 on 1 interview, which made the experience more enjoyable. 

Have you any tips for someone else thinking of applying to Kingspan? 

I'd say it's good to come prepared and show an interest in things like Planet Passionate and People Passionate, as they're a big part of the company. If you’re thinking of applying, just be yourself and don't worry too much about having the perfect answer. From my experience, it's more about showing your thought process and how you approach different questions and scenarios. 

Looking back, what qualities and behaviours do you think you displayed during the recruitment process which made you a good fit for Kingspan? 

I think I was curious and showed genuine interest during the recruitment process. I was fully engaged with each task and took time to think before answering. I also showed my interest in engineering and developing my skills, and how they could be applied here. During the group discussion, I actively participated by sharing my thoughts, but I made an effort to bring others into the discussion and hear out their ideas. Overall, I think I demonstrated good teamwork and problem solving.