Matthew Knight

For my internship, I joined the Business Solutions team. An abundance of unique and varied opportunities presents themselves when working within business solutions. The team let me choose day-to-day which activity would be the most beneficial, ranging from meetings with managers and businesses to setting some time aside for completing my project.  

I decided to apply to TVCA for a summer internship because of the ideal location (Teesside Airport) and the experience I would gain from working in regional authority compared to the private sector. I was not disappointed, getting to meet numerous businesses over my ten-week stay, allowing for an immersive networking experience. 

The main project I worked on was regarding inward investment within Tees Valley. I researched how other Combined Authorities, government bodies and LEPs implement soft landing packages and high growth business support. The main goal was to provide my team with detailed research that will support TVCA’s implementation of similar policies to attract more businesses into Tees Valley 

The most interesting aspect of this project was understanding how TVCA compares to other Combined Authorities and governmental bodies, both nationally and internationally. I was able to identify how we can improve our attractiveness when it comes to inward investment across the region. 

Another exciting opportunity was a bus trip for the interns across all five Tees Valley boroughs. The best part of the tour was visiting the Teesworks industrial site – Europe’s largest brownfield site. We got to look round the construction of the SeAH Wind factory and understand the demolition of old steelwork buildings.  

Throughout the internship I have learned the professional manner needed to interact with businesses and conduct work within an office environment. Having never worked in an office before, this experience has boosted my communication, teamwork and organisation skills as well as my confidence for future job roles. The time management skills I have also gained will ensure I remain disciplined and focused when entering my third and final year of university, particularly when completing my dissertation.  

My plans for after my internship are unclear, however I hope to continue to work within an office environment and hone my networking skills throughout my final year at university. The internship will be extremely beneficial throughout my job-seeking process, having experienced a glimpse into the working world to prepare me for what is to come.