Power Systems Engineer Review

I am a Power Systems Engineer responsible for the maintenance and operation of the greater electricity network in England and Wales. I will be responsible for using complex CAD software to carry out simulations to improve the virtual model of the network.

I have developed my problem solving skills and communication skills greatly. I have also developed my professional working life and attitude greatly as I previously had not worked in a professional work environment. I am also in the process of learning lots of new work place skills that are relevant for my job role.

I enjoy my programme lots and I am very satisfied with how it is going so far. I feel included in work and feel as though all the training provided is relevant to the job I will be carrying out when I finish and that all the trainers accommodate for us all being from different backgrounds and at varying levels of competency in certain areas.

The programme structure is laid out well mostly, with university and having a clear start and end date. My experience however has been hindered by departmental disorganization and issues regarding certain tasks I must complete before I finish my apprenticeship. After talking to apprenticeship programme leaders, I will hopefully have a much better whole experience in my second year as these issues are being tackled, but regardless the course is still well organized despite these issues.

More than enough support for me is provided at all opportunities within all aspects of my apprenticeship, whether it is mental health, physical health or challenges at home, there is always something readily available for me to use/access if I feel as though I need the support.

Lots of support has been provided for me from my training provider such as an excess of materials to work through and regular specialist help with more complicated theory and problems we may face. I do not believe as if I am lacking anything I need to be successful.

I believe the qualification I am receiving is very relevant and good for my job role, however I do believe that the qualification should be degree level due to the level of technical depth that is present in the full time role. I believe a full degree at a potentially more established university could enhance my technical understanding and help with career progression more than what I am currently working towards, but I understand that this is not always possible due to the level of my apprenticeship. Other than this, the qualification is still great for the role.

There are many extra curricular activities to get involved in and I believe a lot of importance is place on these as well which is excellent. I have already completed a professional networking event and will be taken on an outward bounds trip as well to get to know my colleagues better and as a congratulations to all of us who are on track to complete the course.

Yes

I would recommend them mainly due to their support and opportunities you are given access to while on and off scheme. Nationalgrid has been an excellent first place for me to start my working life and I do believe that they are extremely committed to hiring new talent and giving lots of people a chance, which is essential in the modern working environment. They are also very modern, with lots of flexible working which I think is excellent for those who are younger being more comfortable face to face over a screen rather than in person.

live the company values of do the right thing, find a better way and make it happen as these are essential within all aspects of the company. Do not think that you are unsuitable for the role or are worried as it is a big corporation and they won't make time for you; they make more than enough time and you are treated with the respect of a full time employee. Be yourself if you apply as they look for genuine people, not those who are putting on a front to pass the interview; if you only want the job for the money, then this is not the right place for you.