Apprentice Electrical/Electronic Engineer Review

My role is quite varied as I am on rotational placements around the business. My role comprises of technical support, sales, design, service engineering and I am also responsible for completing 3 NVQ projects giving me the chance to enhance my practical skills. I am currently working in machine tools service which is really interesting and enjoyable as I am learning how various control systems work and how to apply fault finding techniques to get to the bottom of the issue, getting the system back up and running.

Since starting my apprenticeship I have learnt lots of new skills and I have also built up my understanding of control logic and PLC systems. On starting my apprenticeship I had minimal electrical knowledge and all of this was theoretical. I have completed several NVQ projects which has provided me with the chance to learn how to interpret electrical drawings and then implement this understanding wiring up a variety of different systems. I am now spending time in machine tools service which again is providing me with more practical experience and allowing me to implement my electrical/electronic skills in the real world.

I have really enjoyed my apprenticeship program since starting and still now. The program in my opinion gets better and better as time goes on and the placements become more technical. The company never hesitates in funding any additional training and the support is always there should I need it. When joining I did think that the apprenticeship would be a little more hands on but as I have been coming through the different departments I have gained an understanding of the importance of the more theoretical, office based placements.

I have always felt valued by Siemens and I have received excellent feedback from various placement managers for getting on top of the work load that I have been set up with. Due to the standard of my placement reports and also the level of effort that I have put in at college achieving distinctions across the board in my HNC, I received internal recognition being awarded with the Siemens Rising Star Award. When I finished the last NVQ project that I did, that would be used for training. I received excellent feedback, I was told that I had done a fantastic job and it looked very professional.

My manager takes great pride in structuring our apprenticeship and regularly asks for our input on how it could be improved. We are regularly undergoing training that is suited to our job role both internally and externally. On regular intervals we have individual learner reviews where we can raise any concerns we may have and our progress against preset targets are assessed.

All the support I need is there and staff are willing to help should I need it. The attitude towards offering help and guidance is how it should be.

Siemens are always there to offer advice, support and guidance. If I need any of these or if I think my colleague does then I know who to approach and I would feel comfortable approaching them as this would never be frowned upon.

To be honest I struggle with my low salary as I started my apprenticeship late in life. I rent my home and have 2 children. The salary is reasonable in comparison to some other apprenticeships and with all the training I am undergoing I do not expect to be paid over the odds for my work. Money is regularly put into social events for the apprenticeship group within the business.

I am a STEM Ambassador which is encouraged at Siemens so I regularly get involved in volunteering activities at different schools and colleges. I see this as an opportunity to help clarify the opportunities that are out for school children upon leaving education. I have been invited to several company events which is great as it gave me the opportunity to socialize with a diverse range of people, widening my network.

Yes

Siemens have your best interests at heart and do not hesitate in providing you with the training you need. The support that is available during and after your training is immense whether this is for communication issues, personal issues or issues regarding the need for additional training.

Be honest, give it your all and push for where you want to be. Go outside of your comfort zone and build up your network.