Apprentice Machinist Review

As a machining apprentice I undertake a number of activities throughout the day. I use a conventional milling machine to produce aircraft components to a high tolerance and standard. I interact with the majority of my work colleagues as I may need advice on the task as some can be very complex. I produce slots, holes, chamfers etc. depending on what the process sheet that is given to me states. I have a lot of responsibility even as an apprentice as I have my own machine which I work on daily.

I have learnt a number of things while on this apprenticeship, being able to work as a team and individually is one skill I have learnt, as you need both while working on the shop floor and also gives you experience outside of work place also. I have taken part in an overhead crane lifting course which is sometimes need for the task that I do as some of the billets I machine can be extremely heavy. I have developed my maths and English skills whilst at college which lead me to pass my first two year in the apprenticeship with distinction and distinction*.

I really enjoy the apprentice programme that I am currently doing as the company I work for give me responsibilities that another company wouldn't making me feel part of the team at all times. The work also is very interesting as I am manufacturing aircraft components it makes it very enjoyable when you find the work you're doing interesting.

I feel very valued at BAE Systems, like I said previously I feel part of a team with the amount of responsibility I am given in the workplace. Also as I attend regular reviews with my line managers, they give me praise when they feel it is needed and point me in the right direction if I have made a mistake making me feel comfortable in working for the company.

When I first started there wasn't much structure as I was one of the first apprentices for a number of years on this particular site. We had an induction to introduce to the site and give us a feel of the place, but after that it became a bit less organised. After talking to my line managers in one of my reviews, we managed to put a system in place that would help me progress in my apprenticeship, giving me the support and training I needed.

I am offered a lot of support by my training provider if I need it, they constantly check to make sure I am treated how I should be on the shop floor and making sure I feel part of the team. They also offer advice on any written work i have done if I need them to do so.

I am offered a lot of support by my employer, if I am having an problems within the work place or even at home there are places I can go, people I can talk to so I receive support if needed. Team leaders and other employees support if I have problems on the shop floor with the work but also with the any other related problems.

As I am older than most apprentices the salary is brilliant for me as an apprentice. As I still live at home I can comfortably live off the income along with a few luxuries. It doesn’t cost too much to travel to work and it is adequate enough for social activities.

There are many opportunities for my outside of work, such as becoming a STEM ambassador for the company by promoting engineering in the local surrounding area. There is also the Blackburn club which can be attended if you sign up to be a member. Also if there are any charities that you are involved in company may sponsor you if you are taking part in an activity on behalf of the charity.

Yes

I would definitely recommend BAE Systems to a friend and I have done so on many occasions. As I have worked at other companies I have had an insight on how some companies don't look after their employees whereas BAE Systems is the complete opposite, they make you a valid member of the team no matter what level you are, they give you countless opportunities to further your career whether it be further education or extra training on the shop floor. There is also offer support in any situation that is needed for you making it a great company to work for.

Be patient with the application process as it is a very popular company to work/apply for so it may take a while to get through the process. Be confident and prepare as much as you can so you can give good answers that make you stand out. Also research what the company manufactures and where they operate as they it will shows that you have prepared yourself well for the interview. I needed to take in a project for my interview so use something that you are passionate about and you have a lot of knowledge of so you can present it in the best way possible.