Engineering technician apprentice Review

My job title is engineering technician apprentice and this covers many different aspects depending on where in the business I am currently placed. On a day to day basis I am involved with process improvement activities, planning and managing projects. I will interact with different departments to ensure smooth running throughout the department and business.

Qualifications I have gained through my apprenticeship include a level 2 NVQ in engineering and level 3 BTEC in engineering. I am also studying for my foundation degree in electrical and electronic engineering. The subjects I have studied include, pneumatics and hydraulics, electrical and mechanical engineering, alongside maths, mechanical principles, project management.

I extremely enjoy the program which I am taking part in with BMW group, I have learnt many new skills, and improved existing skills. Moving through different placements throughout the business every three months has meant I have worked with many different teams. This programme has exceeed all expectations which I previously had.

Throughout my placements I receive the recognition I deserve, I am given the responsibility to carry out daily tasks and run with small projects, assisting where ever is possible. Regular start and end of placement reviews allows me to receive feedback on my performance, and gives an incentive to excel in every placement.

The apprenticeship is very well structured. Every 3 months you rotate placements. The purpose of this is to give you a good understanding of the business as a whole and how the different departments function together. This also allows you to get to know many different people. There are regular start and end of placement reviews to track our progress in each placement. Training courses are regularly offered to further our knowledge.

Accessibility to our training provider is very easy. Regular meetings are also held to check we are on track with any targets which we have been set, but also to check that we don't have any issues, and if we do these can be rectified quickly through this easy contact with our training provider. They are very keen on helping us get the most from this apprenticeship.

My employer provides me with fantastic support, ensuring all of my needs are met, such as new uniform/PPE etc. Any issues are dealt with quickly and correctly which is a benefit. My training manager is easily accessible which is useful. My employer wants me to get as much out of the apprenticeship as possible.

The salary is excellent and meets all of my requirements. Discounted lease schemes also provides me with cheaper travel. The hours I work are very good and so is the pay. Travel costs are very low and the site is very close to my home and also very accessible. This keeps travel costs down.

There are many company events for me to get involved in. One of these which I participated in was the mountain challenge which took place over a weekend and was a good experience, allowing me to spend time with my colleagues outside of the work environment. There are also family days held such as firework shows or fun fairs once a year or to celebrate certain occasions.

Yes

It is a well structured apprenticeship with lots of focus on gaining the necessary qualifications to keep you moving up through the business. The division of time between work and college is good. The experience gained throughout the apprenticeship can't be had from just studying alone. The pay and other benefits such as holiday allowance and car scheme are very good.

Apply for work experience on site if necessary. Ensure you have some background experience in engineering, either studying it at school or college, or outside of the classroom as a hobby. Work on skills such as working alone and in teams as these are necessary skills which will benefit you in the workplace.