Apprentice Electronic Engineer Review

My role as an apprentice for BAE Systems involves me learning about electronics, and putting what I learn into a real world context. A common for task for me at my training centre would be to complete assessments on the topic we have been learning. These assessments put what I have learnt into a real world context, and allow me to not only expand my problem solving but also see how I should use my knowledge that I have acquired.

I have learnt plenty of new skills, such as how to correctly solder to a particular standard, and how to correctly identify the functions and parts of different circuits and the components that make them.

I enjoy the programme mostly due to the practical aspect which is required. I feel like the supportive and experienced trainers help to create an environment which I feel is comfortable to learn in. The company, BAE Systems, are very strongly involved with the apprentices and have already gave us gift cards and a free christmas meal which has helped me to feel more fitting in with the new environment.

I feel BAE Systems values the apprentices very well as they always seem to be involving us. We constantly get checked up on, and always have someone in contact with us from on site who can help when we need to ask questions. rewards such as gift cards and the free Christmas meal showed that we aren't forgotten about, and showed that the company does very much care for our welfare.

The programme is very well structured in a variety of ways. The way the three years are split up seem to be an effective way of breaking up the apprenticeship as we first gain our knowledge then eventually put it into use on site, rather than being chucked in at the deep end. The team building activities such as Bowles were also a good aspect of the structure of the apprenticeship as it meant that we could make better connections with our colleagues, which in turn would help us in the working environment.

We recieve plenty of support from our training provider, with comments on our work given to us daily. We are able to freely ask questions when we need to, with very supportive and directional answers given in return.

We get plenty of support from our employer, as we are able to contact them whenever we need to sort something out. We also get visits every few months to check how we are doing, which also gives us a chance to speak to our employers about anything we feel needs sorting.

I feel the salary package is okay but could do with somewhat of a pay rise. Travelling via train and bus to work tends to get expensive, and when you take into account living costs it can be harder to get by. Especially for those in my apprenticeship group who are older than me who have even more to pay out for.

Outside of work I feel there a plenty of opportunities to take your career further such as the engineering conventions held, and different events held. In terms of social opportunities I think there is also plenty of chances to meet other apprentices with nights out being a common thing being set up.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems to a friend as they are a good way of getting into the engineering industry and gaining A grade experience.

I would say you should work hard, and keep to deadlines when you can. Don't feel you can't do anything, because sometimes you are just the slower of the bunch at some things but at the end of the day you can still get the job done.