West Fraser’s class of 2024, Magdalena Swiatek – Graduate Energy Analyst

West Fraser, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of engineered wood-based panel products, is committed to “attracting and recruiting great people, and creating workplaces that are reflective of the communities we are a part of and where diversity in culture, experience and background are valued. The approach underpins our strategic objectives to attract, employ and retain engaged, talented and high-performing people, support better decision making, reach a broader pool of potential employees and maintain a more inclusive work environment.”  And here, in the fourth of a new series, we read the stories behind some of the young talent emerging today.

What first attracted you to the company?

My interest in West Fraser was sparked by the company’s impressive commitment to innovation and sustainability. Recent significant investments in technology and local communities stood out to me. Additionally, the opportunity to work within a multinational organisation with diverse engineering challenges and a clear path for career progression was highly appealing. The chance to contribute to a company that values its employees and strives for environmental responsibility made West Fraser an ideal choice for my career ambitions.

What’s been your career path and how did it happen?

My career path has been guided by my master’s degree in renewable energy engineering, providing a strong foundation for my current role as an Energy Analyst at West Fraser. This marks my transition into the field, where I focus on optimising energy management and supporting sustainability initiatives. I’m passionate about applying my knowledge to contribute effectively to West Fraser’s environmental goals and enhance energy efficiency practices.

What’s the best thing about your current role? What is the most interesting thing you have worked on so far in your time here?

My role as a Graduate Energy Analyst at West Fraser gives me the best opportunities to learn new skills in a supportive environment. One of the most interesting aspects of my role has been implementing a new energy reporting system and quantifying energy savings for various projects. Additionally, I’ve had the chance to explore opportunities for further energy and emission reductions, which has been both challenging and rewarding. I also enjoy visiting our Inverness site to collaborate with the team there, gaining first-hand insights into our operations and identifying areas for improvement.

What do you hope to achieve at West Fraser?

At West Fraser, I hope to play a significant role in advancing our sustainability goals, particularly in reducing emissions. My aim is to develop and implement innovative strategies to minimise our carbon footprint, enhancing our energy efficiency and sustainability practices. By leveraging data analysis and cutting-edge technologies, I aspire to identify key areas where we can achieve substantial emission reductions. Ultimately, I want to contribute to West Fraser’s reputation as an industry leader in environmental responsibility and help pave the way for a more sustainable future.

Which of West Fraser core values do you identify with most?

The West Fraser core values I identify with most are Safety and Teamwork. I am committed to working safely at all times for both myself and my colleagues. Additionally, I believe in the power of teamwork and strive to be a good team member by being honest, committed, and treating everyone with respect. These values are essential for fostering a positive and productive work environment, and they guide my interactions at West Fraser.

For further information on the graduate opportunities on offer at West Fraser, please email  Graduates.UK@westfraser.com