Access Networks apprentice Review

My role was access networks engineer is to maintain and repair the HFC and Telco network to keep a high level of service to our customers within a team. My daily tasks could be from replacing old/damaged equipment to repairing cable and eliminating noise, as well as ensuring the correct RF levels are received at the customer so they get the best possible service. My responsibilities rely on being able to fix these faults as well as manage my own time effectively to ensure that I can do this within the targeted time and all other admin responsibilities around this. This also includes working flexibly on-call and being willing to put in extra work where needed. Projects that I have done consist of Woodside surveys to get customers connected up to our network. Another personal one of mine was to try and get my village which is currently off-franchise onto the network by generating interest within the village in which I put flyers through all doors within the village.

I have learnt a lot of skills over my time as an apprentice which has enabled me to feel a lot more confident in doing different things I believe will help me throughout life, from basic skills to more complicated computer skills and knowledge. Training courses I have gone on during my time here were use full as they can be applied to other jobs if I felt the need to move on. These were the G39 electrical safety course, NRWSA road safety act course which allows me to work safely on the road. Personal skills I have gained great knowledge and fundamental knowledge in the field of telecoms having no previous knowledge of the industry. During my time here I have learnt how to work effectively in a team as my team have encouraged me to constantly improve and further my knowledge which has allowed me to develop further as a person and feeling more trusted as more responsibility has been given to me.

I have really enjoyed my apprenticeship programme and the majority of that is down to the people in the company this was a major part for me as everyone in every department is always willing to help as you all have a common goal and will always support each other.

Not only this the work I do I feel like I have enough responsibility and I am trusted enough which encourages me to do well in my work and ensure it is done to a great standard. and within this I feel like my role as a networks engineer allowing me to use both my hands and my head is a good fit for myself.

My programme is well structured due to regular meetings with both my apprenticeship and networks manager allowing them to keep track of my progress and keep up with regular work and make the use of help if it is needed. On top of top of this they have allowed me to travel to different facilities and see other aspects of the company.

I receive a lot of support from my training provider as he is always contactable and willing to help with any issues that I am having during my apprenticeship. on top of this the scheme is well structured enough in formats that I can easily understand and get on with easily.

I receive a lot of support from my employer as they constantly have things going on be it through company wide events of place specific events in which I have been encouraged to go and do during my time as an apprentice. On top of this the company also provides several benefits that I can use.

for myself my Salary is well suited as it allows me to cover living and travel costs as well as daily costs. it allows me to have a little bit of money for social things as well.

Outside of work there are lots of opportunities to take part in certain events as well as the company encourage special events such as Christmas as well as socially with other workmates.

Yes

The support received throughout means that thy would be comfortable and also the ability to go and visit and make other relationships within different parts of the company makes it an easy place and enjoyable place to work.

I would say when these opportunities present themselves to do that little bit more or visit these different places take them as you will find others that are similar to you and making these relationships early on will help you throughout.