ME Component Owner Review

ME Component owner - technically responsible for one of the largest components on the aero engine. Also responsible for maintaining the predictability of the component and process improvement

Whilst I have drastically improved my role-related skills: problem solving in a manufacturing environment, production statistics, knowledge of CAA law etc, my academic ability has not progressed far beyond A-Level and Engineering Education Scheme level.

Whilst the training was interesting it rapidly became frustrating, as training in another city took 8 months longer than advertised. The educational (non-internal) aspect of the training was disappointing. I greatly enjoy the role I now perform, however. Moving off the scheme has opened doors and experiences that I like.

As an apprentice whilst in Derby in training - 8/10 As an apprentice in Hucknall - 5/10 As an ME in Hucknall - 8/10

The ME programme for Hucknall apprentices was extremely disorganised prior to joining - HR communicated incorrect information about the role, length of time in training, location of training, salary, placement information and qualification. I have had 6 apprenticeship managers so far, and it was only in the last 6 months of my apprenticeship that I received my NVQ folder.

In Derby - an appropriate amount. In Hucknall - I struggle to contact my ADL who occasionally is on site, either by phone or email.

In the first few months, there was enough flexibility to complete academic work and my role. Now I am fulfilling my ME role I have not got the time to spend filling out the NVQ folder or surveys....

In contrast to what I was told before I joined the programme, I was expected to routinely travel to Derby without expenses for training purposes for over a year. Having invested in living near the Hucknall site (so I wouldn't have to buy a car), I had to buy a car, insure it (with no no-claims as a 18 year old living in a rough area) and travel 1k miles a month. As a consequence I dipped into the savings my grandmother saved for me to go to uni to pay for the petrol, tax, insurance and the vehicle capital. It wasn't until S2 that I could start paying my savings back. I'm sure this is a different story to those living with parents locally in Derby, and paying less for board than my monthly phone bill.

As part of the AgA, yes. As I don't live anywhere near Derby I joined a local university's student union as an associate member and make use of their facilities and clubs.

No

Whilst not having a student loan is advantageous I don't believe the education currently provided as part of the scheme is like-for-like.

Keep a record of communications with the recruitment team so you can ensure promises made by them are carried out...