Project Management Review

My role involves regular interface with a key customer and ultimately I am accountable for the successful delivery of a modification programme to the customer's fleet of Hawks - the role offers me a dynamic and fast paced working environment, with significant responsibility. I am responsible for managing a project team comprised of many people from several functions (e.g. engineering, commercial, finance, procurement, manufacturing) spread across three sites in the North of England.

Lots! I have completed my foundation degree, higher apprenticeship and am a few weeks away from graduations with an honour degree - all in Project Management. Further to this, my employer fully supports any development needs I identify and funds my attendance at conferences such as the British Conference for Under Graduate Research, as well as conferences run by the Professional Bodies (E.g. the Association for Project Management). Throughout my apprenticeship my confidence has grown, as my capabilities are stretched from being placed in challenging situations with lots of responsibility.

I would not have changed a thing! Back in 2012 when I applied and was accepted onto the programme, many people thought I was crazy not to be going to university when I had the potential. But 5 years down the line I am the one telling those critics that they were crazy for not doing a route like I have done! The work is diverse. The company is so big that it is rife with opportunity if you're willing to put yourself out there and go for them. Additionally the culture has shifted enormously in my time, with both the investment in apprenticeships and the support network that underpins it increasing year on year. It exceeded my expectations because I was being told I was making a mistake by so many people, including the staff at the college I attended. My programme has given me the best of both worlds, an education and real life experience - the benefits of these complementary experiences are seen in both the academic and professional environments I operate in.

Very! This is demonstrated by the continuous career development opportunities I am presented with (e.g. the qualifications and conferences). The company recently opened a multi-million pound training facility for not only apprentices but every day employees who have been in the company for years - this demonstrates that not only am I valued as an apprentice, but also as an ex-apprentice I will still be valued. I believe my hard work is recognised and rewarded where appropriate and I am held to high standards. This has been seen most obviously on my current project that is of strategic importance to my UK Customer, but even before this when I was in the early days of my apprenticeship I was regularly rewarded for going above and beyond the day job - this is partially down to my work ethic, but also down to the fact that I know the business will recognise my contributions so I feel empowered to exceed the basic expectations placed up on me.

My programme has been established for 10 years now so it is very well organised and the structure is proven to work - a lot of the people who come off it stay within the company and progress through the ranks quickly, in part due to the excellent platform the scheme provides you with.

Lots. Tutors are always readily available and even on occasion have been flexible enough to meet me outside of my working hours when they know it is more appropriate for me due to work commitments. The relationship is great and we have a very open and honest way of teaching because there is a mutual respect there. Although I prefer working, the educational element that comes from the training provider is good.

Lots! Financial support is second to none with competitive wages and funding for additional qualifications being provided when necessary. On occasion I have suffered from difficulties both within work and at home, the support the company has given me to work through these has been great. From re-arranging placements that are better suited to my development needs, to providing support from occupational health when facing difficulties at home.

Far exceeds it. I am already paid above the average wage within the UK before I have even graduated. Travel costs are subsidised when travelling on business and the locations for me are accessible due to the infrastructure that surrounds my places of work.

Quite a few. As already explained I am actively encouraged to get involved with professional conferences and the company offers a wide range

Yes

All of the above reasons.

Don't under sell yourself!