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Kingspan Group

Welcome to Kingspan Group

Martin Ta

Mechanical Engineer

  • Location: Mattoon, IL
  • Degree: B.S. Mechanical Engineering
  • University attended: University of Notre Dame
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What does your role in Kingspan involve? 

I support maintenance of the line production through preventative maintenance tasks, help to fix line stoppages/breakdowns, and work on continuous improvements projects to help improve line production efficiency and operator experience. Additionally, I help order parts and services needed by maintenance/engineering for breakdowns, repairs, and new projects. This also involves overseeing the cataloguing and organization of all the spare parts for the line production in ShireSystem (our parts management system) and maintaining the spare parts room in the facility.  

 

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

The most interesting project that I am currently working on is adding an extraction system in the line production in an area with substantial grinding dust buildup. This area is frequently used by line operators, and a buildup of grinding dust is a health and safety concern. I am currently working on a design and plan to install a dust collector into the area to reduce environmental health hazards and increase cleanliness on the shop floor. This project has allowed me to use my technical and problem solving skills on an issue that impacts people directly involved on the shop floor. 

 

What prompted you to apply to Kingspan?  

When I was searching for job opportunities, I resonated with Kingspan’s core values of sustainability and social consciousness and was also impressed with their commitment to their Planet Passionate/People Passionate initiatives. The graduate programme was also a major contributing factor, as it showed that Kingspan is committed to investing in and nurturing new talent with professional development and an environment to adjust to working in industry. 

 

What was your experience of the Kingspan graduate recruitment process? 

I had a great experience going through the Kingspan graduate recruitment process with recruiters who were honest, transparent, and supportive throughout the process. The rounds of interview felt intentional and very catered to understanding me as an applicant and what skills/experience I offered. The graduate assessment centre was also a very well-organized experience that removed a lot of stress and anxiety from the interview process and provided the space to demonstrate my strengths as a candidate. 

 

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

I would advise anyone applying to Kingspan to deeply research and learn about the company’s mission, goals, and expanding growth across different markets. I would also reach out to people that work in Kingspan and seek their advice and experiences, as I have experienced that people in the company are always open and willing to help. 

 

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 an important quality I think I displayed during the recruitment process was being openminded and adaptable, as in this industry, there are always challenges and obstacles to face in manufacturing. Showing confidence in your technical and professional skills in the face of adversity or changing circumstances will help you stand out as a great candidate. Additionally, demonstrating great speaking and collaborative skills (especially in the graduate assessment centre) will also help in justifying why you can be a great fit for Kingspan.