Apprentice Technician Review

My apprenticeship involves a rotational placement scheme which has me spending 3 months in a number of departments throughout the scheme. Currently, I am working in the IT department and my daily job roles involve; Checking and replying to important emails, completing a variety of IT related task and helping to set up members of the business onto their new company smartphones

I have started to learn how a company of this size and nature operates with regards to IT. I have also developed my formal writing skills through various emails I have had to send to important members of staff.

So far I am enjoying the programme very much. The variety of jobs ensures I am not stuck completing a boring task over and over again. Day release at college helps to break up the week.

Currently, I do not feel like a pivotal member in the finmeccanica team however this is due to the sheer size of the business. Over time I will develop skills and will learn more and more about the environment I work in.

My programme is extremely well organised as I have a direct manager I can report to if I encounter any problems. I have a placement plan laid out that covers my entire working year. Furthermore every member of staff I have met so far is very happy to assist me in anyway they can.

I do not currently receive any support from my training provider as far as I know. All support given to me is done so through the business and in particular my manager Nick Henderson.

I receive a great deal of support from my employer, if I ever require assistance in a task all I need do is ask a member of staff within my department and they are always happy to help.

When we were completing our PEO at college the cost of travel was extremely high. However now that I am on day release my travel costs have dropped significantly. I currently live with my parents and so the wage I receive is more than enough to allow me to live an active social life.

I am already aware that there are multiple opportunities outside of work, including charity work and sporting events. I am also aware that there are a number of recruitment events that I am interested in getting involved with as I found the apprentices at the open day I attended very helpful.

Yes

For me, the placement plan is the best possible option for anyone interested in working in the engineering industry. It provides the apprentice with an idea of the general day to day life of engineers and technicians within that department and allows the apprentice to make an informed decision as to where they would like to start their career.

Take your time with regards to the application process. Answer the questions truthfully, relating them to your own experiences, this will make the interview process much clearer. Attend the open day if possible to gain as much information as you can about the company and if possible speak to current apprentices to get an idea of their day to day roles. When attending the assessment centre make sure you bring a suitable project and that you stand out in the group exercises. When it comes to the interview process try to relate the question to experiences you have had personally.