Apprentice Assistant Solutions Engineer Review

My job title is an Apprentice Assistant Solutions Engineer, due to being at college on a block basis my day to day tasks vary. I am currently at college working towards several various PEO units which are electrical based. Then when I'm back in the office my role could be anything from looking at survey data for sites to getting out and about and looking at all the different components my team is responsible for to even planning my own projects.

When I came into this apprenticeship I had a HNC in electrical and electronic engineering, this meant my knowledge of all electrical was quite high, however I had no practical experience. Now I'm back at college getting that practical experience I needed. I have done electronic breadboards, where I got to make a mini traffic light system and I have also started my electrical installation PEO, where I get to wire ring mains and light circuits. And I have many other PEOs that I haven’t even started yet. As well as going to college though we also have in house training, I’ve currently down entry into enclosed spaces and lifting operations.

I think that the apprenticeship that I’m on is very enjoyable, I get to travel all around the country whilst getting the experience I need to be good at my job, as well as getting to do all the practical work at college. The team that I have been put with are great, they are very patient when I don’t understand something fully and are always there if I need them, and this is something that I have found throughout Severn Trent there is always someone there to help.

As an apprentice at Severn Trent I feel very valued. The amount of time and money that they have invested into my program is amazing and I’m still in my first year. If I ever feel like I need to do something to help with my education within the role it is always taken in and accepted, this could be to my manager or any of the new talent team.

I feel I like I have all the support and structure that I need, both from the college and internally at Severn Trent. We had a good introduction into the company and my team is always giving me new projects to get involved to help widen my knowledge of the company.

I am currently studying at EEF Technology College, this is a private training college that is specifically for those who need practical experience. I think that the courses that they provide are very good, all the tutors are willing to help and we have a company rep to help us with any other issues you may have.

I feel like my team, my manager and all other employees at Severn Trent give loads of support. If I have any questions I always know that my manager or someone from my team will always answer my emails or my phone calls and if I’m ever out on site I can ask anyone and they will help me. As well as this I also feel like all of my questions are taken seriously and that people really do what to help you progress within your career.

I think that my current salary is great. It covers everything that I need it to and I always have a little bit left to put into savings. I am also a residential student at college which means during college weeks I am in a hotel will all the other apprentices which is paid for by the company, as well as an evening meal and breakfast. All travel costs are also covered by the company.

Severn Trent offer many activities outside of work, there are always meetings or gathering with the apprentices and graduates as well as fellow colleagues. On top of this, being a residential student means that I get to spend lots of time with other apprentices. When we are staying in the hotel we often go out for dinner or to the gym, as well as just hanging around in the hotel. And when we are not together we often meet up and always stay in contact to see what everyone is up to.

Yes

I would definitely recommend Severn Trent to a friend as I think it is an awesome place to work, with fantastic, friendly people and great opportunities right at your fingertips. There is always new things to get involved in and new people to meet, as well as being able to get the best out of what you want to do.

I think the best tip I could give you is to just be yourself, and try and be relaxed. The interview and assessment days aren't as bad as you would think and everyone at Severn Trent is very friendly and welcoming. Lastly, stay calm and remember to just have fun.