Project Management Higher Apprentice Review

My role at the minute is as a Project Management Trainee, where I am expected to develop my knowledge and awareness of the function, alongside gaining skills and experience with working inside the function, prior to the completion of my scheme. Typical work can include holding meetings, reporting on actions/outcomes, chasing people for updates required ahead of milestone completion and a lot of ad hoc work which help the business in meeting targets. I have also had the opportunity to create plans, use PM tools such as Responsibility Assignment Matrix, Work Breakdown Structures, Organisation Breakdown Structures and Risk Assessments. I have also had ownership of developing data downloads as part of a EVM process, a crucial aspect of tracking an organisations progress.

I am constantly developing my presentation skills and communication skills as these are vital to success. I have also been able to use tools such as MS Project and MS Access which I had no previous experience with and also planning tools like P6 and Artemis. Additionally, Project Management specific tools learnt at college have also been developed, especially where the opportunity has permitted for their use in work placements.

The programme is a great way to gain exposure in our business, alongside gaining the crucial experience and network of contacts as well as an armoury of skills that are needed once exiting the scheme. Having said this, it is easy to understand where you feel that you can fit into the business better, which can cause you to not want to move on, once you have found where you think that may be. I enjoy the mix of college and placements and I enjoy getting to meet a lot of new people. Sometimes you can find yourself being treated as a resource; however there are ways of dealing with this, quickly in our business. I feel I do enjoy my programme, though I have come to realise that the profession isn't necessarily one for me.

In BAE Systems, I am made to feel that the work I do is vital to meeting the teams objectives and achieving the overall business aims. As a Higher Apprentice, I am not expected to know everything, but I am encouraged to take risks and try and push myself as much as possible. In terms of working teams, I always have a great working relationship with those whose team I join, though some more than others. I feel that the business recognises us as the future and value us for this reason.

In terms of consistency, the programme is well organised, with each of us on the PM Scheme having three core placements (Risk, Planning and Project Controls) and the rest of our placements being tailored to our development. I do think there are improvements to be made, especially in terms of the quality of what you learn in the placement, some are far better than others. I also feel that it would be nice to have the option of choosing at least one of your placements during the scheme, as otherwise we may never get to go and work somewhere we have a keen interest in. During the interviewing stages prior to getting the job, we are told that if we do well but don't get the job, you will be put forward for another function if possible. I feel that this should continue in the workplace also i.e. If I am not suited to PM then maybe move me (or give me the option to move) to HR or Finance or somewhere that would better suit me.

I cannot fault the support that I receive, albeit sometimes a little sketchy, i.e. asking for help at college is quite difficult to get the exact answers that you want, but this is only because they want you to try and do it for yourself. The content at college is suited to the nature of the scheme and the experience of the tutors is high standard. I feel that some of the lessons could be shortened and allow more time for independent study whilst there at the campus.

Employers are generally encouraging towards me completing assignments in time and wanting them to be of a high standard, being willing to read over them and ensure they think that they are good enough to achieve the higher grades. The also allow for you to set aside time in the workplace to get cracking with assignments too.

Having worked in a supermarket prior to starting with the company, my salary had a massive hike. I am able to fund a pension and maximise my shares. I can pay board at home and still have money left to cover my costs for the 4 weeks. Additionally, the salary is enough to be able to save so much each month and as we have a wage review every 6months, I cannot complain about my wage.

As part of the scheme we partake in stretch assignments. These often take place outside of the business and can involve a variety of levels from within the business, including new start apprentice, Project Leaders, senior management and even the Directors. These can include community projects, previously included development of a track and field facility for a local academy, sports days, charity gigs etc.

Yes

BAE Systems values its employees and encourages personal development, not only through a person's scheme, but throughout their employment. The business will do its best suit your needs and recognises the achievement of those who go above and beyond, encouraging a good work ethic. The pay is very reasonable and the experience that a person will gain form working here is second to none. The international nature of the business provides opportunities for working abroad, as you do not have to just work in on aspect of our company. Aside from this, they have a good pension and share scheme so that you can feel financially satisfied.

Be prepared to push yourself, strive to do the best in your work placements and do not be afraid to ask for help when you need it; your development is your responsibility and nobody else's, so take control of it.