Learn to thrive at university

Visit our Uni Life hub to get insights and advice on navigating your life at uni, from building a budget to finding your people.

Faustina's Journey: ITW Graduate Scheme

My name is Faustina Mensah and I’m a graduate of Sheffield Hallam University. I am currently a Graduate Trainee at ITW Construction Products - UK and Nordics Division.

I am passionate about volunteering and giving back to the community, which has been a rewarding part of my life.

My hobbies are watching football, travelling, hiking and reading. I also enjoy baking, staying indoors and listening to music.

Faustina's Image

What made you apply for the ITW Graduate Scheme?

I applied for the ITW Construction Product Graduate Scheme because I want to build a strong foundation in the construction industry. The program also aligned with my diverse background. ITW after reading about them was known for its innovation and leadership, and I wanted an opportunity to learn from the best. I liked the fact that the program came with rotations which will give me a broad understanding of different roles. Also, I like the company’s focus on individual entrepreneurship and continuous improvement. It seemed like a great place to start and grow my career.

What was the interview process like?

The interview process was thorough and engaging. I went through a series of interviews
that allowed me to showcase my skills and experiences in different areas. The practical assessment, which involved a marshmallow challenge, was very memorable. Even though my group didn’t win, I learned a lot about teamwork, problem-solving, and creative thinking under pressure. It was a great experience that reinforced my interest in the role and the company.

What was your reaction to getting the graduate position?

I was super thrilled when I got the news from Guilia. I remember screaming on the phone with excitement. It felt incredible to know that my efforts had paid off, and I was overjoyed at the opportunity to start my career with such a reputable company.

What was your first impression of ITW?

My first impression of ITW was highly favourable. I was impressed by how deeply the company’s values are included in everything they do. It was clear that these values aren’t just for show but are actively practiced and integrated into their daily operations. Even during the interview, you could see that some of the questions were skewed towards the company’s values.

What have you enjoyed learning during your first month with the business?

During my first month at ITW Construction Products, I have had a lot of fun getting to know more about the innovative technologies and solutions that the company is involved in. Through our products, I observed how they directly affect development work in the field of construction. Also, I have been able to learn many things by witnessing firsthand how our products are used in real life applications when they did the product training at Glenrothes.

I have also had the opportunity to meet and discuss with the Key Account Managers in my division and understand their roles and responsibilities better.

Furthermore, by watching us manage Paslode social media accounts and marketing department in my division, I have learned so much about what we do for marketing purposes.