Engineering What’s Possible: Celebrating Alumni Success

This week, we were delighted to highlight Old Elizabethan Rob Turner (2004–18), who is now working as a System Integration Engineer at BMW Group, sharing insight into his career pathway and the value of alternative routes into engineering.

In his role, Rob supports the integration of new vehicle systems on upcoming model programmes and prototype vehicles, working closely with engineering and production teams to ensure designs function effectively when brought together at vehicle level. He is also involved in supporting prototype and pre-series vehicles, which has provided opportunities to travel across Europe and collaborate with teams across BMW Group sites and supplier partner locations.

Rob joined BMW Group through a four-year Degree Apprenticeship, studying for an engineering degree at Birmingham City University while gaining hands-on experience across the business. During this time, he completed placements in logistics, project management, quality engineering and planning, developing a broad skillset and a strong understanding of how different areas of the organisation work together.

Reflecting on his journey, Rob encourages current pupils to explore all available pathways, particularly apprenticeships, which can offer an excellent alternative to the traditional university route. He highlights the importance of tailoring applications carefully, gaining work experience wherever possible, and choosing subjects that align closely with intended career ambitions. Rob also notes the flexibility that large organisations can offer, with opportunities to move between roles and departments as careers develop.

Rob’s career progression provides a strong example of how commitment, curiosity and alternative pathways can lead to successful long-term careers, reflecting the breadth of opportunities promoted at the School.