1. Tell us a little about yourself and your role at Bilfinger.

My name is Pedro, and I joined Bilfinger in 2018 as a Trainee Pipefitter. I am now a Mechanical Supervisor for Projects at Fawley Refinery.

2. What led you to move from Portugal to the UK?

I originally moved to England in 2014 to complete my degree in Port and Marine Management, with the intention of staying on a temporary basis.

3. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the move?

The first major challenge I faced was the language barrier. When I arrived in England, I had limited English and did not initially pass the English tests required to join university.

I decided to stay for a year to improve my English and reapply the following year. During that time, I found work as a chef to support myself. Although hospitality was not the right long-term career path for me, it helped me gain valuable experience and independence. I later secured a role as a labourer at Fawley Refinery, and within six months I began my apprenticeship with Bilfinger.

4. How has your career developed since joining Bilfinger UK?

After I was unable to join university initially due to the English language requirements, I chose to remain in England and focus on improving my English so that I could apply again the following year. At the same time, I needed to find employment, so I took my first role as a chef, I gained valuable experience, built strong friendships, and developed confidence, although I ultimately decided not to return to university.

I progressed quickly within hospitality, becoming Kitchen Manager and later Head Chef. Over time, I realised that hospitality was not the career path I wanted to pursue long term, which led me to take a role as a labourer at Fawley Refinery for a groundworks company. After six months, I joined Bilfinger as a Trainee Pipefitter in November 2018. From there, I continued to develop my skills and progressed to Pipefitter Chargehand before becoming a Mechanical Supervisor in September 2023, which is the role I hold today.

 

5. How has moving to a different country helped you grow personally and professionally?

Moving to a different country helped me grow both personally and professionally. Being away from my family, finding employment, and living independently for the first time were all significant changes. There were moments when I considered giving up, but looking back, I am glad I persevered. The experience made me more resilient, independent, and confident in my ability to adapt to new challenges.

6. What advice would you give to someone considering relocating to another country for their career?

My advice would be to take the opportunity if it is something you truly want to do. Relocating to another country can be challenging, and there will be times when you miss your family and friends, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. It is important to stay connected with home and visit whenever possible, while also making the most of the opportunities available to you.