Engineering Apprentice Review

I'm and engineering apprentice training to be and engineering technician. I work in the R+D workshop and I am involved in projects that could eventually lead to new products and new processes. I work with a team of 5. I often have to use machine such as mills and lathe to produce components for the projects.

I have learned many new skills. I have completed a level 2 Btec and NVQ in engineering and I am currently working towards completing my level 3. I have gained skills to be able to confidently use the mill and lathe. I have completed and gained a certificate for abrasive wheel training. I have completed and passed my training for IPAF, to be able to use scissor lifts. I have also developed my team work skills and have developed my confidence.

I really enjoy my program. The people I work with at Siemens are all nice people who are willing to help me and pass on their experience and knowledge. I also enjoy going to college and working with other apprentices from different companies (BMW). I feel that I am meeting my expectations as I am working to a good standard at college and I am passing all my assignments. I do enjoy my apprenticeship and would recommend it to someone else.

At Siemens I feel very valued. I feel as like I am part of the team. When jobs are completed we always get a thank you and can sometimes get a champions award for your work. I feel valued at college, when we do our assignment well and work well we often get a well done from our teachers. I feel like I am given responsibility within projects which makes me feel more valued and they trust me to do the job well.

I feel the apprenticeship is very structured. When I first joined Siemens I had all the relevant training (EH+S) to be safe on site. Siemens have also put me on more training to help me understand how the company operates and how the production works. The organization at college is also very good. College have provided me with health and safety induction and many other forms of training. In my department at Siemens, tasks get discusses and delegated to the most appropriate person to carry out the task. We have morning meetings with our manager to discuss the days jobs.

My training provider provides good support. I was struggling in math last year and my training provided supported me by giving me a tutor who would come and see me and would help me revise and understand the math. My tutors at college are very good. If I ever have a problem they are very easy to talk to and will help to answer my questions.

My employer is very good at supporting me. Within my department there are 4 other people who are always willing to help me and guide me. If I am ever unsure of something I can also go to my manager who will also try to help me. I feel that everyone I work with at Siemens is very helpful and is never too much trouble for them to help me.

As I am living at home with my parents I do not have many outgoings. Therefore, I feel that the salary is very good. I have been able to save during my apprentice whilst also going out and doing things, with not much money worries. We also have a pay rise each year which is very good.

Outside of work I play for a local football team in my town. Siemens play 5a side every week and I have played a few games with other Siemens employees. There are events that I can attend such as open evenings. Siemens often does charity work and they hold fundraising events such as the Blenheim run, where Siemens enter a running team.

Yes

I really enjoy working at Siemens. I enjoy the tasks that I am given and I enjoy working with the people who I work with. I like working for a large company and it can give you the opportunity to progress with your working career and move through the ranks. I feel that Siemens has a very competitive salary and gives its employees very good benefits such as Bupa health care. Siemens look after their employees, which I like.

When applying for Siemens make sure you include on your CV anything that could potentially make you stand out from the next person. When carrying out the online assessments make sure you read every question, and re-read the question. Ensure you answer the questions fully making sure every bit in answered. During interviews, just try and be yourself. The managers know people are going to be nervous but just try and show them what you can offer the company. Also make sure you dress smart for the interview!