Information Communications Technician Review

Typical work schedule. Worked in two departments: SWAP repair, where you test and fix devices for faults, and Configurations, where you set up devices for customers and complete assetting, normally Windows and screen protectors. Typically your expected work is given to you at the start of the day, but occasionally priority work comes in at midday. You generally work by yourself, except in SWAP repair filtration, where you typically work with a partner or a team.

High focus on attention to detail for assetting and fault detection. Organisational skills are a strong requirement for configurations, as you may need to balance different types of customer kit for one day, or complete different builds in a time efficient manner. Builds and repairs can also be lengthy, requiring multiple steps to complete, so focus and thoroughness is also a skill required here. Communication to escalate mistakes or exceptional circumstances is also helpful.

Many (particularly the dedicated apprenticeship team) did help where they could. However miscommunication often occurred between the training provider and Computacenter as well as other parties that meant that I faced several setbacks and uncertainty, including having to change apprenticeship programs. I felt as if I had to constantly bring problems and concerns up and complete more work than expected.

I had to flag that I was on the wrong apprenticeship programme, and had no idea what I was doing for my end project until I was halfway in it. I was left to do a lot of it myself and didn't receive much support from someone familiar with my role as well as the criteria for passing/excelling. There was a set of steps needed to take for completion and in the end, I managed to meet it. However, my programme ended far later than most others in the company.

When brought to the right people and when constantly chased up, I got the support I needed. However, again, a lot of self-advocacy was needed. I felt as if people directly involved with setting up the processes did not understand my role nor the criteria / end project to pass. There seemed to be a limited amount of communication or understanding between the training provider and my supervisors. However, adequate time was given to complete my work, and extra time and shadowing was given where it was needed.

Plenty of feedback was given on work given, however it was perhaps occasionally a bit vague, or extra explanation was often needed. There were a lot of feedback sessions, catch-ups, and reviews which helped to keep me on track. Suggestions and advice were given when asking for clarification. For the training courses, plenty of resources were given to help me pass.

They helped to have a better base understanding of technology, but most of it was largely irrelevant. If anything, it helped to have a better ground for future progression into more advanced, higher level fields.

There were plenty of social activities, networking, and volunteering events both from Computacenter and for apprentices by the Future Talent Team. These were well-structured and good notice was given to all apprentices, as well as equal opportunity to contribute.

Yes

Good apprenticeship team and a good environment to work in. In spite of setbacks personal to my programme, there were many opportunities to give feedback and be involved in other activities. Networking and upskilling is generally encouraged here.

Be prepared to do a lot of work yourself, and become familiar with the apprenticeship programme. Ask lots of questions and don't be afraid to speak up if something is unfamiliar or seems wrong. Take advantage of the opportunities and assistance given to you here.