Apprentice Signalling Design Engineer Review

I am an Apprentice Signalling Design Engineer which involves using computer aided design to make electrical drawings for use on the rail way among other things. From time to time I also go on track to carry out manual work. All the work I produce and my experience on track is recorded and fills a portfolio of evidence that will allow me to become a fully licensed Railway Signaling Engineer at the end of my apprenticeship.

In my time here I have learned many new skills such as how to use CAD to produce engineering drawings, how to work closely with others to complete a project in a set time scale and how to carry out work on the railways safely. I have also been able to improve some of my existing skills like using a computer. Due to this I now have a deeper knowledge and respect of the railways.

I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to do this apprenticeship, it requires hard work but it in the end it is definitely worth it with the experience you gain which will hopefully allow me to follow this industry past the apprenticeship. On top of this I have fond memories of courses I attended though the programme and I have made many new friends.

Overall, Siemens as a company treats its employees very well and they are afforded many perks and benefits for their contributions. Personally I feel Siemens strives to keep its workers happy, especially apprentices as we are always involved in discussion when it may affect us and there are endless opportunities for us to better our experience and get the most out our time here.

The programme is well structured, alongside any work I am given in the office and on track, the other apprentices and I attend day release at a local college for our course in electrical engineering. At the end of this two year course we should receive a HNC in electrical engineering and then we have the opportunity to pursue a HND or remain in work full time. These courses are paid for by Siemens and are another example of extra opportunities we can take advantage of. There have also been many courses relating to our work in the railway.

My trainers have always done a good job at offering support or assistance if I’ve been stuck or unsure of something. They make sure you are comfortable and know what to do if you are given a task and if I have ever needed to ask for something they are friendly enough that I don’t feel intimidated.

Similarly, my employer provides a fair amount of support, I feel like I would be listened to if I had any issues and they do their best to make sure everyone is happy. There are a number of online employee services where you can voice your opinion on matters which affect you and the company is always quick to inform you of anything like this.

Currently I am quite happy with my salary as it covers my personal costs like travel etc. and I have enough to enjoy without worrying about payments. The salary also increases annually so that is a good prospect, so once I have completed the apprenticeship I should be earning a good wage, it is then just a question of whether then it will still cover my costs.

Outside of work I have been on several courses relating to the railway some of which have involved travelling and staying from home which is interesting and good if you enjoy a bit of freedom and change of scenery. There are also our college courses which we attend every week with the possibility of pursuing even higher education following the completion of our HNC/HND, such as a degree. Finally you can do overtime shifts throughout the year for some extra money and experience.

Yes

Because it is one of the world’s leading companies and the work it does spans multiple industries, if you are interested in engineering at all it is a fantastic opportunity and it’s a good feeling to be contributing to maintaining and upgrading the railway which is in itself a very old and well established industry with history in Britain. On top of this it’s just a good company to work for with lots of employee benefits and a friendly environment.

You must be prepared to give the job 100% of your potential because it can be a difficult learning curve but if you work hard and pay attention you will get on fine and be able to take full advantage of the opportunity. Another tip for success is to be willing to learn new things and enjoy it.