APEP Degree Apprentice - Product design and development Review

I am currently employed as a Vehicle Safety Test Engineer. My role involves rigorously testing new vehicle programs to ensure they comply with national safety regulations, enabling Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) to market and sell their vehicles globally. I have the privilege of working alongside highly experienced engineers who provide exceptional mentorship and guidance.

I have acquired a multitude of new skills, such as advanced crash analysis, data interpretation, and the use of specialised testing equipment. Additionally, I have honed my ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and improved my understanding of global safety standards and regulations.

I thoroughly enjoy my role as a Vehicle Safety Test Engineer. The opportunity to work on unreleased vehicle programs and ensure they meet safety standards is incredibly rewarding. I particularly appreciate the collaborative environment and the chance to learn from experienced colleagues. The continuous acquisition of new skills and the ability to contribute to the global success of JLR make this role both challenging and fulfilling.

My programme is well-organised, with clear communication between the company and the university, who work closely together. As an apprentice, I am part of a team where I report to my line manager. Additionally, I have an early careers team that supports apprentices and the programme we are on.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. There are many people I can approach with questions or concerns. If something goes wrong, I have numerous contacts to turn to, including my manager, mentor, early careers lead, degree apprentice tutor from the university, or even a colleague.

I receive substantial support from my training provider, as I am pursuing a full engineering degree offered by the University of Warwick. The programme covers all aspects of engineering, which we can then apply in our work. Conversely, we gain numerous skills on the job, often more than at university. This dual approach provides us with a significant advantage at university, as we can integrate our practical, on the job experience into our modules, boosting our learning further.

My qualification through the University of Warwick greatly enhances my ability to perform in my role. The engineering degree provides a theoretical foundation that I can apply directly to my work. This academic knowledge, combined with the practical skills I develop on the job, creates a comprehensive learning experience. This integrated approach ensures that I am well-equipped to tackle the challenges of my role effectively.

There are plenty of activities to get involved in at JLR. There's always an event happening in the main building, offering a welcome break from daily routines and providing opportunities to network and learn something new about the company or other organisations. Additionally, there are football and basketball teams, as well as various societies you can join. JLR is highly focused on employee well being and offers a great range of activities to support this.

Yes

I would definitely recommend JLR to a friend. The programme is well-structured, with great support from mentors and colleagues. JLR cares about employee well-being, offering various activities and events. The innovative work environment and focus on professional development make it a fantastic place to grow and advance your career.

Be prepared to start a full-time job; its a fantastic experience if you manage your time well and are eager to learn. To succeed, be proactive and engage with as many people as possible. You don't need to know everything from the start; showing a willingness to learn is key to thriving in the company. Additionally, take advantage of the various activities and events JLR offers. These are great opportunities to network, learn more about the company, and develop new skills. Make sure to utilise the support system available, including mentors, managers, and colleagues. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance when needed. Finally, stay organised and keep track of your progress. Setting clear goals and regularly reviewing them can help you stay focused and motivated. Embrace the challenges and enjoy the journey of growing both professionally and personally at JLR.