Inspiring the next generation of engineers: work experience with our Medical Engineering team

Our Medical Engineering teams at both Gloucestershire Royal and Cheltenham General Hospitals welcomed local students for a three-day work experience placement — offering a rare, hands-on insight into the critical role engineering plays in patient care.

During their time with the team, students got to grips with real clinical equipment, including the Surgical Generator tester. Under the supervision of our skilled engineers, they simulated using the device on a patient, gaining a deeper understanding of how medical devices are tested, serviced and maintained to the highest safety standards.

One of the key activities involved servicing a harmonic scalpel — a complex process that included correctly setting up test equipment, passing a high level of electrical energy through the system, and analysing the output to ensure it operated within safe and acceptable limits.

The harmonic scalpel itself is a fascinating piece of surgical technology. It uses ultrasonic vibrations generated from a connected handpiece to allow the blade to both cut and coagulate tissue simultaneously. By denaturing proteins and sealing blood vessels as it works, it helps to significantly reduce blood loss during surgery.

Beyond the scalpel, the students were also introduced to a wide variety of other medical devices, from infusion pumps to defibrillators, and learnt about the vital processes our teams follow to keep these tools operational and safe.

We’re proud to support early careers and provide meaningful learning opportunities for those interested in STEM fields. A huge thank you to our engineers for sharing their time, knowledge, and passion for healthcare engineering.

Adi said, “Having work experience at the GMS Medical Engineering Department enabled me to use critical thinking when approaching servicing parts. Following instructions and maintaining respect with the team is an essential part of working in the department, as well as always learning something new, be it a new equipment or even a concept of learning. I covered safety protocols, basic legal issues and learnt about the functions of many equipment alongside with how they are serviced. I even learnt a little on how hospitals work as a whole but even the value of the role of being a Medical Engineer.”

Aston’s parents said “He absolutely loved it and has certainly something to aspire to. It has been very insightful and inspiring. Aston has learned a lot and also had the opportunity to do practical tasks. The staff was fantastic, enthusiastically explaining their jobs. It has provided him with guidance and focus in his life, which is so important for young people to have.”