Project Management Trainee Review

My role as a Project Management trainee in BAE differs from placement to placement. I carry out a range of different activities. These could involve creating a programme using Microsoft Project. Using data from the business to create databases. Also using the different Project Management processes such as risk management by creating risk registers.

From the foundation degree I have been carrying out, I ahve learnt many different project management processes and how to implement them. I've also had the chance in work to get involved in extra curriculum activities where I have had a chance to put those processes into practice and gain experience.

I have really enjoyed the past 6 months working BAE. I have got to see the great products they make. Most important getting to know different people on my course, in my placements has been a good experience. Learning while I'm earning has also been very beneficial. I would recommend it to anyone.

Some of the work I receive on a day to day basis may be tedious at times. However, in certain times in my placements I have received and carried out work that had definitely made me feel like a valued employee and team member and could be seen as critical work.

I feel as if the Higher Apprenticeship scheme in BAE is very well structured, mainly due to the fact that my placements for the next 2 years are already set out. Also the work load from College (where we go once a week) is very manageable alongside doing placement work. Along with stretch assignment we can get involved in to further ourselves it's a very good scheme.

Attending a course at College is very beneficial, as I am learning my trade in work and backing it up with theory with the foundation degree. Also SuccessFactor is our learning hub. We can go on SuccessFactors and apply for any course within reason and to online courses that we believe will help us in our placements.

Early Careers, our employer, looks to help our development as aspiring Project Engineers, while alongside the Project Management Function, they look to make sure we have guidance throughout our placement and there is never any issue, in or out of work. We also have regular meetings with Early Careers where any issues can be raised and discussed

As a young trainee, the salary I receive from my job very much suits my lifestyle and it suited to what I need. Also with yearly pay rises it will only improve. Also the fact the company pays for our degree helps very much and will definitely benefit me in the future.

For the Higher Apprentices in BAE, there is Stretch Assignments. These are opportunites during and outside of work to get involved in events involving other company and schools for example. Also the area around BAE offer lots of opportunities such as sporting facilities and attractions, which I was made aware of during my induction week.

Yes

BAE's Higher Apprenticeship scheme is a great opportunity for anyone wanting to further and develop their career. With the array of placements BAE has to offer within work I will get to experience different types and styles of work, which can help me decide what role to go fro when I finish the scheme.

I would recommend looking into the history of BAE Systems and learning about all the different products they have made over the years to get a feel for the company before starting. And when applying for the scheme, remember it is a really good thing to be a part of so work hard to try and take it very seriously