CMM programmer, Inspector Review

My role on the advanced apprenticeship was involved in plant quality at Castle Bromwich as a Co-Ordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) programmer and operator. The daily tasks were to provide dimensional assessment of potentially any component used on any of Jaguars platforms. These dimensional assessments were completed through 'cutting' CAD models and programming them using CMM software and hardware. We interacted with customers from all functions at Castle Bromwich as well component suppliers. I was responsible to ensure that all dimensional assessments were completely accurate and provided in a timely manner so customers could continue their investigations/course of action. We also get involved in many projects supporting new builds and prototype models.

During the Advanced Modern apprenticeship I have attained an impressive portfolio of qualifications and skills. This involves a foundation degree which was fully sponsored and an array of level 3 academic qualifications as well as an technical NVQ 3 on CMM inspection.

For me Learning and expanding yourself on a personal, academic and working level is enjoyable and invaluable. The apprenticeship was a perfect way of achieving the aforementioned as well as being able to earn a very competitive income. Earn While You Learn!!! Whilst an apprentice you meet many new friends and colleagues.

Jaguar Land Rover is a great company to work for and they value you highly, as a result you value them highly. There is always strong opportunities to progress and continue on expanding skill sets.

The programme is very well organised and structured. Qualifications are evenly spread over the 4 year duration and academic/working time is fairly split allowing you enough time to complete the apprenticeship requirements.

The training providers allocate plenty of support for apprentices. they have many support avenues open to us in the form of ITM's (internal training managers) as well as others. Regular meetings are held with apprentice/work teams to ensure that they are supporting you to the maximum

My Line manager always provided lots of support and will always go out of his way to support. If ever I had any issues or grievances he would be there to help.

As mentioned previously the Jaguar Land Rover salary is very competitive and every 6 months starting from the beginning of the apprenticeship rate for stage payments are received whereby salary is bumped.

There are always opportunities outside work such as CSR events ( community support events). At these events we are empowered to talk to potential customers or learners and sell our experiences to them.

Yes

For the same reasons I valued the apprenticeship. all of the previous comments provide a good summary of my feelings to this 4 year advanced modern apprenticeship.

Be honest, tell them why you would love to work for such a great company. Always ensure you prepare for all aspects of the recruitment stage from the engineering tests to the interviews. There are always forums and such which can be used to gain a good insight into the process.