Tue, 09 July, 2024
In 2020, NSIRC and De Montfort University (DMU) started a collaborative journey to promote learning and professional development. The programme started as an executive MBA and has been further developed to accommodate experienced professionals through the Level 7 – Senior Leader Apprenticeship (SLA) programme, funded by the apprenticeship levy.
Matt Haslett completed his MBA studies and SLA with DMU and NSIRC in 2023.
He described his experience as "very rewarding" saying "Studying a new area very different from my previous technical and engineering background was a significant learning curve and I liked the challenge it gave me. It has allowed me to develop better in my role as a team leader, allowing me to see the bigger picture of how my role and that of my colleagues fits into the overall TWI strategy."
Matt added, "If you are keen to learn and willing to put in the effort then go for it. I'm sure you will find it difficult at times to balance everything, but the outcome is worth it! It is important to be strict with your study hours in work time, to make sure you have enough time to learn and also meet the apprenticeship requirements. Don't fall behind!"
What Matt found most rewarding about his experience:
- Balancing work, life and study: The programme demands commitment but ultimately delivers a rewarding experience by accommodating the busy schedules of working professionals, with flexible learning options and dedicated support to help you succeed.
- Enhanced leadership skills: The programme equips participants with a broader perspective, leading to improved leadership effectiveness.
- The Modules: The "business strategy" and "reshaping the future of work" modules offer valuable insights into strategic thinking and organisational dynamics.
- Practical application: Assignments and projects directly link theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, enhancing practical skills.
- Supportive learning environment: The diversity of the cohort fosters active discussion and enhanced peer support, while experienced lecturers provide expert guidance.
During his studies, Matt was working as a Team Leader for Environmental Testing at TWI Ltd. His main areas of expertise lie in fracture toughness testing, mechanical testing, Engineering Critical Assessment (ECA), full-scale testing and bespoke mechanical testing. Matt is a Chartered Engineer (CEng), Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE), Fellow of the Welding Institute (FWeldI) and an Incorporated Welding Engineer (IWE). In 2024, Matt was promoted by TWI and is now a Technology Fellow.
To learn more about the programme or to register your interest to join our next SLA cohort, visit the NSIRC website.