Supportability Technician Review

Being in my final placement it is my role to report to my supervisor for any work that is available for me to do, or continue with any on-going work that I have. My current work mainly involves calculating failure rate predictions for the receiver on the Captor-E radar.

Since starting with Selex ES my skillset has improved vastly. I have achieved a HNC in engineering systems and am currently about to enter my final year to gain a HND in engineering systems. My soft skills have also improved, namely communication skills, leadership skills and timekeeping. My hands-on machining skills have also improved largely as I had no experience beforehand.

I enjoy the programme a lot. From the workplace, the people to the challenge of the job; I really do enjoy being a part of the programme.

I feel that the recognition that the apprentices and the apprenticeship scheme get is of a high level. The contributions we make are appreciated and our contributions are communicated internally and externally as much as anything else.

Speaking for myself, generally in my past 3 years the programme has been structured well. I say generally because there was a slight rough patch in the middle of my time here, but that was from unforeseen circumstances rather than a lack of effort by anyone.

I receive as much support as I need. I am comfortable in knowing that if I had a problem with anything work/college related that I could pick up the phone and I would be listened to. I am very happy with the support that is on offer to me.

Same as above really. There is a uniform pattern throughout the business that if you have an issue, there will be support available for you.

For me personally my salary meets my costs adequately. However that is because I still live with my parents and have few major expenses, but I know this is different for other people within the programme who have their own house, car and/or children. The salary could prove difficult for these people. Also the salary hasn't been adjusted for inflation for at least 5 years.

One thing I can say for sure about Selex ES is that there are always opportunities outside of work. From working with schools, to robotic games, to being able to work away with your department for a week or so.

Yes

There are many opportunities for you at Selex ES. It is a friendly working environment, very modern and the products that are produced are really interesting. There are so many people within the company who have worked here for a long time as well and have a lot of skills to pass on to people like myself. Also the qualifications you earn; HNC or HND Engineering Systems depending on if you are a Craft or Technical apprentice respectively. There is so much room to grow at Selex ES and it allows you to take your career in to your own hands.

First of all make sure you have the appropriate qualifications to apply but if possible try and exceed the minimum as this will give you the best possible start. Try and do your research about the company but don't just say what's on the website, you should understand what the company values are, what they mean, and how they apply to Selex ES. For assessment days, try and make sure you are listening to everyone as much as you are speaking. It's good to show leadership skills; but it is also just as important to show you are a good listener and can work well in team.