Pipe Fitter Review

Pipe fitter. Daily tasks include assembling and installing marine pipework, ranging from pipe as small as 10mm outside diametre to 323mm OD. The materials used include carbon steel, stainless steel cunifer and copper. I generally alongside an experienced tradesman, which allows me to seek help anytime I need it, but also gives me the freedom to work on my own if I feel I am capable.

I am on my way to achieving a HNC in fabrication and welding, which I've have completed over a 2 year period by attending college one day a week. On the job I have learnt so many new things which involve the job such as reading and interperating drawings, welding, braizing, shipyard and work related terminology and various other on the job techniques. Working as part of a team every day has also developed my socail skills and work ethic.

I would definately say I enjoy my work. Bae systems is a company that values its emplpoyees which are proven through the various incentive schemes, and provide great working conditions including the canteen and locker rooms. I had high expectations of the company because of its worldwide reputation and it as met those expectations. I enjoy the actual work inolved in building the warships as well as the working with the people alongside me

I do feel vauled at BAE systems. As an apprentice, every 12 weeks we do a progress review with our training officer to keep taps on our progression. This makes me feel valued as within the reviews they ask us how we think the programme could be made better and let us know how we are performing throughout the apprenticeship. I feel that I work hard and would like to think my work reflects, which we are reminded of in these reviews. I think being a part of a team that builds something worthw millions of pounds also gives you a huge sense of value

I feel my programme is very well structured. Every 12 weeks we move from one site or department to another, this gives us an appreciation of the various aspects involved within the company, and enhances our skills in each area. I also feel it is very helpful that we have our day release at college to allow us to complete our qualications, which in my case is HNC.

Our training provider is always in contact with us ensuring we feel we are getting the most out of our apprenticeship. There have been a couple cases where I felt I wasn't, and my training officer acted quickly to suit my needs. Even outwith work he likes to make sure everything is alright with my personal life, whether that be problems at home or with money.

I feel there are management within the company who are very approachable. There was one time in particular I had a problem with my payslip and the staff in the HR department were really supportive and sorted my problem for me with minimal fuss.

I feel that our apprentice wage is very reasonable, and I currently am able to pay for a car, digs and keep up my social life without being skint at the end of the month.

I haven't been involved in any company evens outwith work, and don't know of many that are available other than volunteering at a launch day, which I didn't take part in.

Yes

I have done so in many occasions for the following reasons: It's a job which will provide you with stable work for years. Even if not here, having a trade behind you offers various opportunties to continue your work elsewhere, whether that be abroad or offshore. As well as the good pay Bae systems offers good incentives such as its pension and shares scheme. It's a company that provies good working conditions and a sense of pride when you produce products of such magnitude.

With the initial application process take your time when answering the questions, ensuring it is the best and most honest answers you can possibly provide. It's important to do your research on the company so you know what you are going into, not only in the interview stage but if you get beyond that. Show in the interview and application stage that you are really keen to get into industry, but be sure to consider the job carefully, as it not only them interviewing you, but you are also assessing whether or not this is a place you would like to work.