Technical Apprentice Review

As a technical apprentice I rotate job roles every 4 months, this enables me to view all aspects of the business and to have an informed choice when selecting an out of time placement. Current I am working in the Avionic Rigs department. Day to day works for me as an apprentices revolved around the building of a datalink gound station test box. This involved building the components that went in the box, power supply, level shifter ect ect, building the box that the components will be housed in, mounting and wiring the components and finally testing the whole unit. Apart from this task, I would help out where required, some other jobs I have carried out was working on a wiring loom for a development aircraft. I also undertake various other apprentices activities, such as STEM events and helping with site tours.

I’ve recently completed my HNC in mechanical engineering and currently working towards completing my HND. After this I will be looking at what route to take to get onto a degree course. Internaly there are a number of training modules for me to undertake on success factors, recently completed ETMs include ITAR training, and some small modules on EVM and LCM. Whilst being on the SDD (rigs) deparment I have developed and improved a number of skills. I have greater communication abilities, both verbally and written, I have a deeper understanding of the mission systems that go onto the Hawk aircraft. Some new skills that I have learnt revolve around wiring and soldering. Previous to this placement all my roles have been computer based, with no hand on work. During my time on this deparment most of it has been hands on, giving me a understanding of SHE ina workshop, but also learning skills in solding, marking boards, wiring, reading wiring diagrams.

For the most part, the programme is enjoyable. Like any job, there are bad days where the work is dull and uninteresting, but also on the opposite end of the scales some work is interesting, high pressure and enjoyable. The team I’m working with does make an effort to include me, there is however a slight barrier I believe in regards to age and experiences. Though I don’t feel as if this is purposeful, but something that is natural and is overcome by working together. The company culture helps to make the programme more enjoyable aswell, people tend to believe it’s important to get out of the office sometimes, and hold meeting face to face, visit vendors, or see the A/C when there is a problem. Most times it’s the beleife and culture of the company to bring the apprentice along. Overall, the programme is not what I expected, it’s better. Typical work for me is not “apprentice work” that is boring and a full timer doesn’t want to do. It’s normally important, time sensitive work that I’m trusted to do with minimal checking.

My manager has expressed his appreciation at the level of work that I’ve done, and typically most managers I’ve worked with so far are good at this. There are some internal recognition schemes such as Above & Beyond which I’ve been fortunate to receive. I have also received a chairmen’s award. These recognition schemes help you to feel valued, and that when you work above what is expected, someone is watching and will reward it if it’s deserved. There is limited recognition from outside the company, however some STEM events have resulted in thank you letters being posted to work. Typically I’m well involved in what my section is working on.MY previous placement reviews tend to highlight me as a capability apprentices, this means I tend to get involved and get some decent work. When the work I do is of a good level, the manager makes sure to express that he appreciates the effort I’ve put in, this helps me feel valued.

My programme is very structured and I always know where I am going. Before I began my placements, a plan had already been put in place and communicated to both myself and my future team leaders. This made each transition easier and meant I had time to prepare for a change in placement. From what i have seen here at BAE, the apprentice leader is really well-organised and ensure we have a plan of action for our daily work and if there is any issues they like to resolve them before a bigger problem emerges.

Support from the training provider is minimal. Typically you only get support one day a week, the FE day. Email support can be difficult, with some teachers being better than others. Guidance on problems with assignments is typically good, but as mentioned above, this support is usually only on the FE day. So if you don’t understand something, you normally have to wait until the FE day to try and get an answer. The training is not enjoyable, or un enjoyable.

My apprentice trainer gives lots of support, attempting to visit me in my department at least once a week. This is normally to see if I have an issues with work, or any general issues. Mike is always reachable in his own office if I have any problems I need to speak to him about privately. I’ve don’t get much support from the HR team, though I’ve never requested it. There is not a mentor programme, but I can get support from the apprentice trainer if I need it. The general attitude of the employer in supporting me is good, I know there is support when I need it

Since the last payrise at the start of the year, living costs have become a lot more bearable. I live on my own, so my livening expenses are slighty higher than others I work with, typically around £800 in all for bills and food a month, this leaves me with around £300 a month to spend or save on what I want. My travel costs are currently minimal as I live close to the site, and on FE days I lift share. Due to the amount of spare money I have, my social interactions can be somewhat limited. Typically I have night out a week/

There are a number of opportunities outside of work. I’m a STEM ambassador and regularly go into the schools, careers events or other similar events to help promote engineering and apprenticeships. There are also chances for company STEM trips to other parts of the company, or the globe. When I’m not working, I spend time with friends, travel to see family, or see my girlfriend. I also enjoy fitness activities and video games.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems to a friend because the company really look after you and really care about your progression throughout the business. The company actively look for you a full time role when your apprenticeship is coming to an end so you never feel as though you have to worry about your future. Everyone within the business is really friendly and i think you can devlop yoour skills in a range of areas and engineering in the business and use these in other jobs if you decide that BAE is not for you.

Ensure you take your time when going through the application process, start it early, go back to it through the week, ensure it is detailed, there are no spelling mistakes or grammar mistakes. These wont allways get picked up by word. In the interviews be confident, hand shake, smile , have good eye contact. Normally you’re asked to bring something you have made, make sure it’s good, if it’s of poor quality, this will reflect negatively on you.