Here at Western Gateway STB, we want to inspire the next generation of transport professionals. That’s why we offer several internship experiences in partnership with Universities in the region, including the University of Gloucestershire.
Most recently, we were delighted to welcome Emaad Shafraz Mansoor, a third-year student from the University of Gloucestershire, to our internship scheme. Emaad’s time with us was to support a professional placement module that required a reflective portfolio based on working experience.
His placement specifically focused on the cross-pavement research project with the Electric Vehicle (EV) team within the West of England Combined Authority, alongside learning more about the wider regional initiatives led by Western Gateway STB and attending programme meetings. Emaad joined the team on site and also worked remotely.
“It was really interesting to gain an insight into the technology that will be needed for future EV rollout in the West of England region. Toward the end of the internship, I attended the quarterly Electric Vehicle forum hosted by Western Gateway and Peninsula Transport which helped me see the power of collaboration on improving infrastructure.”
Matthew Cockburn, Project Manager at the West of England Combined Authority, was one of the key members of staff supporting Emaad. He said:
“It was a pleasure to have Emaad join us as an intern in January to March 2026. During his time, we gave him an overview of all aspects of Electric Vehicles including the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) project to install in the region of 2000 new chargers and the cross pavement charging project. We covered transport strategy, technologies, planning, legislation, highways, Geographic Information Systems, wider energy and smart grid, accessibility and design considerations. Each week we covered a topic and Emaad researched it further and presented his findings the following week. Hopefully this brief introduction to transport planning, electric vehicles and local government has helped him gain a wider understanding that will be useful in his future career.”
Mena, Project Manager at the Western Gateway STB, is the key coordinator of internships. She said: “It’s been a pleasure supporting Emaad during his placement with the Western Gateway STB team. His enthusiasm, professionalism, and commitment have stood out, and it’s been great to see his confidence grow. Wishing him every success in his next steps.”
Emaad is keen to continue his experience, and hopes to work in this sector.
