Neil Davies

Department of Engineering and Built Environment

Head of Engineering, Science and Automotive

Academic qualifications

Masters in Engineering, PGCE

Email

ndavies@ucb.ac.uk

"If I could offer one piece of advice to prospective students, it would be to get an apprenticeship."

I’m Head of Department with expertise in Control Systems, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Computer Numerical Control (CNC) and lean principles.

I started my career as an engineering apprentice, before moving into a production engineer role for a company that makes tanks and armoured personnel carriers. I then progressed into teaching and management. My professional background allows me to offer my students a clear overview of the sector and the many paths that can open up to them. I’m able to draw on my own industry experience to show how engineering principles are used in practice and what employers are looking for. Although I no longer teach as I’m now Head of Department, I’ve always enjoyed passing on my knowledge and expertise to my students and helping them see what’s possible in the industry.

One common misconception is that engineering is a “dirty job” and that engineering and motor mechanics are one and the same. In reality, engineering covers a much wider range of skills, technologies and career options. If I could offer one piece of advice to students at the start of their learning journey, it would be to get an apprenticeship - it’s a great way to get into the industry and learn on the job whilst getting paid.

Outside of work, I enjoy playing the guitar and writing songs, and I also really enjoy all of the James Bond films. My favourite quote is: “To be on time is to be late.”