Process Engineer Degree Apprentice Review

As a Process Engineer Apprentice, I work within the Chemical Reaction Hazards team, where my primary responsibility is to ensure the safe scale-up of chemical processes from laboratory scale to plant scale. I contribute to identifying potential hazards through laboratory experiments, and based on these findings, appropriate safety measures are determined and implemented.

Working in a professional environment has allowed me to enhance my professional and communication skills. Additionally, I have developed chemical engineering knowledge through my university course, and have been able to apply this learning in a practical setting, further enhancing my understanding and skills.

I thoroughly enjoy the program as it has provided me with the opportunity to learn at university and then apply and reinforce that knowledge through my daily work. This hands-on approach is something I have found particularly beneficial for my learning style. Additionally, being involved in real-life projects being able to make meaningful impact early in my career is something I find extremely fulfilling.

I believe the program has been well-structured. There have been various opportunities at work that have allowed me to achieve the knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies required to pass my apprenticeship. There have been times when the university course workload has been quite demanding, and the requirements from different modules have sometimes overlapped. However, my workplace has consistently been supportive during these periods.

I have received significant support from my employer in gaining experiences that have allowed me to obtain the experience necessary to achieve the knowledge, skills and behavioural competencies required for my apprenticeship. I also have regular catch-ups with my manager who is always seeking ways to support me and enhance my experience wherever possible.

I have bi-weekly webinars with the module lecturers who are able to answer any questions that have come up while progressing through the course content. Furthermore I have catch-ups every 12 weeks with a work-based learning advisor from the university where any questions or concerns about anything university related can be addressed.

I have been able to independently pick up projects and apply my learning to aid continuous improvement within the team.

Yes there are a range of different activities to get involved with! There are sports groups e.g. run clubs and netball clubs, that are open to all. Additionally our apprentice committee often arrange social events for the apprentice community, which can include activities like bowling, crazy golf, social nights out and hiking. There are also many professional networking events where you can hear from leaders within the business and learn about the work other apprentices are involved in.

Yes

It really is a great place to work!

Make sure you highlight any relevant skills and experiences you have that relate to the role, and let your genuine interest in the field shine through!