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The Panasonic Trust Awards
Marcus Summers – MSc Sustainable Electrical Building Services Engineering,
University of Manchester.
 I started the course at Manchester in September 2005. Run over three years, which could be extended to five, it comprised of eight core and optional modules chosen from a programme of 12. Examination periods were held over two to three days every six months to assess the respective modules completed. I chose to base my dissertation on the viability of photovoltaic systems and urban wind turbines on future NHS developments.
Distance learning has allowed me to remain in full-time employment while support form the Panasonic Trust has been invaluable in helping to meet the financial costs. The NHS Carbon Reduction Strategy for England recently highlighted the need to improve the energy efficiency of healthcare buildings and increase the use of low/zero carbon technologies in order to achieve carbon emission reduction targets. The relevant course content has given me a greater understanding of these issues and has provided the knowledge to incorporate design solutions into NHS capital projects. I particularly enjoyed networking with engineers from a variety of backgrounds; covering topics such as sustainability and low carbon design, together with technical presentations.
I started work over 20 years ago as an electrical contracting auxiliary/adult trainee, eventually becoming an electrician after completing self-funded day release studies at college. I later progressed to Incorporated Engineer level via further part-time study and career progression.
The completion of the Masters degree has been a major personal achievement as well as a pivotal step in my professional development and has undoubtedly improved my future career prospects. I intend working towards Chartered Engineer status in the near future. My heartfelt thanks go to the Panasonic Trust for their assistance and encouragement. I would strongly recommend that other engineers undertake postgraduate studies and take advantage of the funding opportunities offered by the Panasonic Trust.
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