Mechanical Engineering Apprentice Review

Job title - Mechanical engineering apprentice Daily tasks - Machinist of turbocharging components Responsibilities - To learn as much as possible as I rotate into different departments within the company.

Through doing my apprenticeship I will attain the following Qualifications: - Level 2 NVQ mechanical engineering - Level 3 NVQ mechanical engineering - BTEC level 3 mechanical engineering - HNC mechanical engineering I have been able to develop an understanding of manual machines such as lathes and millers whilst getting an appreciation of CNC machinery as well. I have developed an understanding of dyno testing for both engines and turbo's whilst using telemetry sensors to attain various data. I have finally been into business departments to understand the supporting roles within a manufacturing business.

Reviewing my apprenticeship thus far, I am satisfied with the program I am on. The expectations on apprentices is regarded highly within the company and opportunities which stem from the apprenticeship programme are also high.

I feel a valued employee of Cummins. My thoughts and opinions are taken into consideration by all employees and employers. As an apprentice, there are many support systems available both at practical and technical levels to ensure that the apprentice has every opportunity to develop to the best of their ability. During your initial stages of development, there is attention to detail to provide the solid foundations of which the mechanical engineering career is based upon. This is reflected by varying projects of by which we were required to undertake.

The apprenticeship scheme here at Cummins is well structured. From your initial block training at college, to the introduction of operations performed by the company was taken into consideration. Personally, transferring from college to working on site was a daunting task for me initially, but the gradual introduction of rotating onto the site eased any anxiety to non-existent.

Whilst doing my apprenticeship, there are several members which support me in my development on site and at college. College tutors are very supportive with making sure that you learn all the technical skills required so that you attain your relevant qualifications and support systems are put in place if you find any difficulty with subjects, lectures , etc.

I also receive a lot of support from my employer. On site there are also very supportive. They advise the best course of action and employ various methods until they find the best suitable method for you. I have regular reviews with my manager and systems are put in place so that the relevant department managers are aware of my location within the company and feedback information to my manager to ensure that I get the best training available. I also get college reviews with my manager to ensure that college are giving me the best training available and if any issues arise, they liaise with each other to resolve the issues.

My contract with Cummins is higher than expected and it covers any expenses that I have whilst allowing me to make suitable investments going into the future.

Throughout the year there are several opportunities for me to work outside with the community. As a company it is mandatory that all employees work a minimum of 4 hours towards the community and there are systems put in place to showcase potential events, allowing you to select the best one which suits your personal values.

Yes

Cummins is a very good company to work for and it allows you to develop to the best of your ability. There are several support systems put in place so that you achieve what you desire. Personally I feel that I wouldn't get that opportunity anywhere else without incurring increased expenses such as accommodation and travel.

Show interest in relevant fields, such as getting involved with potential projects which your parents/school/college are currently pursuing or develop a hobby around engineering. If applying, behave in a professional manner and plan for an efficient interview (take the following into consideration - Attire, timekeeping, portfolio etc.)