Electromechanical Engineer Apprentice Review

Electromechanical Engineer. Circuit design and construction in lab environment. Detailed fittings design and construction in workshop environment. Housekeeping of above environments.

Yes - all electronic skills learnt fresh, including design and construction (soldering etc.). Developed my CAD skills. Will gain new qualifications as no engineering qualifications previously held.

The practical work is exciting and constantly evolving. The paperwork side is dull and tedious, but it has to be done - best to get it all done ASAP in order to minimise the length of time required and to maximise the amount of time available for practical projects. Colleagues and managers are mostly friendly, definitely a very supportive atmosphere in which I feel comfortable.

Relatively valued. Unfortunately at this stage we are away from DSTL with a training provider and have little interaction with the business. Recognition for achievements is clearly present.

Induction was lengthy but necessary. The training provider is not amazingly well organised, however DSTL are. The training itself is well structured, however more time set aside for practical work wouldn't go amiss!

A great deal of support is available from certain members of managerial staff, for both personal and work related issues.

As yet have received minimal support but the problems I have experienced have been met with a stern, or disbelieving attitude which is a little disappointing. Regardless, I do feel there is a culture of progression within the business, and perhaps my perception of the support will change over the course of the apprenticeship.

Poorly. I have around £20-25 per week left over as leisure money, and this is without accounting for social costs. (i.e. after rent, bills and food) This is including my free commute to work, as I felt I would have to find a house within walking distance so as to avoid incurring further costs for transport. Additionally, on my current salary I cannot afford to run a car on top of living costs, so a commute to any external site is immediately made more difficult.

A few, mostly provided by an employee-run group at my training provider who aim to open the eyes of the new starters to the opportunities available within the company. Outside of work I cannot afford to play the sport I would like to do, and there are extremely limited sports opportunities provided by work.

Yes

Long term opportunities are endless, with such a large and varied company. Additionally the training, once completed, will stand anyone in good stead for future employment.

Be honest in applying. Be prepared for a disheartening first year. Persevere, it is definitely worth the paperwork!