Software Engineer Review

My role is as a Software Engineer. I am responsible for extensively testing a software system in the aim of finding bugs and issues that no one else has. It is a highly rewarding role as every issue that you find represents a monetary value that you have saved the company. Software bugs that go unfixed cost the company a lot of money. This means that I am the youngest members of my team but I am one of the most valued. The role is completely free of pressure and involves being creative and inquisitive in thinking. It is my job to think of ways to break the system (simply by clicking end entering data) and when I do, I am rewarded for it. How good is that?

Yes, shed loads. During my training period which lasted 13 weeks in all, I learned a host of invaluable skills. SQL Database Querying, Java Software Development, Web Development as well as non-technical business oriented skills. I had absolutely no experience in any of these areas but that doesn't matter as the company are willing to invest in training you up from scratch with all the knowledge you need.

The day to day job that I currently work in is excellent. It is something different everyday and the people I work with are some of the best people and characters I have ever met and am ever likely to meet. During my training I met other apprentices that I can safely say will remain friends for life. Just for that I have found the programme to be simply priceless. Everyone within the company is incredibly laid back and welcoming as well as being the utmost professionals at what they do. I really couldn't imagine a nicer company if I tried. As far as my expectations of the programme are concerned, from day one I was blown away and 8 months on, nothing has changed. It still surprises me how much time, effort and resources continues to be invested in myself and other apprentices. It is very humbling.

100%. Everyone within Capgemini is valued and apprentices are no different. It still surprises me when I meet senior managers that seem to be more interested in myself than I am in them. They know how important the apprentice program is and the value that every single apprentice brings to the company.

From start to finish the organisation has been faultless. The induction week was one of the best weeks of my life. The training was amazing and I surprised myself everyday at what I was able to learn in such a short space of time. The ongoing support is unrivalled and the dedication from others to want to progress my career is something special.

It is safe to say that 4 months on from when I finished my training I would have no problem in contacting my trainer for support and advice and that will always be the case. All of the trainers are very knowledgeable within their areas and also have real world experience to draw on. This real world advice is just as important as the technical training that takes place.

The support is always there. As the youngest member of my team, everyone is always keen to offer help when it is needed. Most of the time you don't even need to ask. I feel so comfortable with my manager that I could even go to him with problems I am having outside of work.

All of my travel expenses to and from work are covered. Added to that any training that I wish to attend is covered and also encouraged. The company policy is that you are never left out of pocket. The office location is perfect. I never thought that I would get such a good job so close to home, that much is life changing.

My fellow colleagues are always keen to organise social events during the working week and everyone is invited. There are always training events available which you are actively encouraged to attend as well as staff birthdays and of course the Christmas party.

Yes

It really has to be one of the best companies to work for in the world. Added to that Capgemini is currently offering the best apprenticeship that there has ever been, it really is too good to be true. That is Capgemini and the Apprentice Programme in a nutshell.

Capgemini is not like other IT companies. The company is always striving to be refreshingly different and unique and those are the kind of people that Capgemini are looking for to join their Apprentice programme. Don't try to be like everyone else. Professionalism is very sought after but anyone can show it. If you can stand out from the crowd and be memorable for the right reasons then you have every chance of being successful in you application. Try and be as personable as possible. Make conversation whenever you can during the application process whether it be over the phone or in person and remember that conversation doesn't have to be overly formal. During the application process the company wants to get to know the real you and being able to show that is your secret weapon.