A GRADUATE from Ryedale is to embark on what she says is the ‘opportunity of a lifetime’ as she heads stateside for a work programme.

Shannen de’Vries, who lives in Malton, works at specialist technology company HMi Elements as part of a graduate trainee programme.

The 23-year-old joined the team at Malton based HMi last year after graduating from university with a degree in English literature.

On April 11 she will fly out to Houston, Texas, to gain more experience of the industry as part of her training.

A 'pinch me moment'

“I’m having a pinch me moment right now,” she said.

“This last year has been like a whirlwind, I came to HMi to do some data entry work then found myself helping in the production department – and I loved it.

“The trip to Houston really is the opportunity of a lifetime and I’m excited about what’s ahead.”

In Houston, Shannen will work alongside HMi’s vice president of global sales, Rob Gaines, and sales support engineer, Victor Galan.

She will attend client meetings to learn more about what it’s like to work in the sales team of a global manufacturer.

“I’m mostly looking forward to working in a different environment, and country, and getting a deeper insight into our customers and the key decision-makers in the US,” she said.

“I’ll be new to sales as well so it will be good to understanding the sales process and pick up some tips from Rob.”

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While in America, Shannen will also attend the Offshore Technology Conference – a big event in the global oil and gas sector calendar, attracting thousands each year from all over the world.

She said the conference will allow her to develop her understanding of technology and make more contacts in the industry.

Besides work, Shannen said she hopes to explore the social side of Texas and its arts scene.

“I’ll definitely be making the most of my spare time,” she said.

“Visiting local theatres, libraries, outdoor spaces.

“I think I’ll also take Spanish lessons while I’m there as it will be a good way to learn a new language and make friends.” 

Shannen will return to the UK in June to continue her graduate trainee programme at HMi.

She added: “I’ll miss my family and friends for sure, but I’ll have so much to learn and explore and I’m very independent as it is.

“I think I’ll just embrace everything Texas has to offer.

“It will be very different to the quiet life in Malton I’m sure.”

For more information about HMi, visit: https://www.hmielements.com/