Electrical Apprentice Review

Design based electrical apprentice, I currently work in an office using design software for making up cable lays and schematics. I have done tests on PCB units and shadowed meetings for cable routing. I often am responsible for adding any necessary updates to drawings and wiring schematics to make sure that they are up to date and accurate; recording any changes that may need to be made. I have shadowed meetings with external companies and suppliers so that I can get an understanding of how MBDA work with the suppliers.

I am studying a HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Oaklands College and also studying a PEO in electronics and mechanicals. I have also learnt many things from carrying out the PCB tests and during training courses for some of the design software's that the company use for the design of their cables. I have also learnt how to use the CAD software that is used by the company and seen how it can be used for prototyping and testing.

The programme that I am on offers lots of interesting experiences which are new to me and has taught me how to work for an office based team. The work that I have been given has been quite tasking at time which has intrigued me and prompted me to learn more about it. The people I work with are very helpful and all friendly. They often offer to help or give suggestions and show me the best ways of doing things.

MBDA puts a lot of time and effort into their apprentices which has helped me to build confidence in myself knowing that everyone I work with is supportive of me and wants to teach me new things. The company also encourages new ideas from apprentices in an attempt to discover innovative ideas and methods that could improve the company's way of doing things. regular review meetings also help me to understand how I am performing as an apprentice and what I am doing that could be improved so that I benefit the most from what I am doing.

The structure of the apprenticeship scheme is very well planned out, my placements have all been determined for the next few years and I am also given the opportunity to request certain placement if I feel it would be beneficial for me or if I have a certain interest in it. although I am still quite new to the company, I have already learnt a lot about the company's techniques and layout. I have been informed of all apprentice related tasks that I would need to carry out and how they can be done related to work.

the support I get from the college is very helpful in regards to my college work (assignments) and the work I do at MBDA. some of the electrical units were completely new to me and so learning about them at college has helped me to understand more about what I am doing at work. the tutors communicate with my managers often to give feedback of how I am performing.

the regular review meetings reassure me that my employer is eager to make sure I succeed during my apprenticeship. I have been offered lots of support for things like college work, project related work and even out of work issues. they are keen to help me learn but also are aware of any issues I may be having and so I am given work appropriately and not in excessive amounts.

I believe my salary is very good considering my age and experience. my main issue is my travel costs as I do not live very close to my work location however it is not too much of an issue. the company offer lots of benefits and offer financial support should I need it. they assist with the costs for any work based travel that I may be required to do and offer bonuses for good work.

there is lots of company events and activities that apprentices are encouraged to help out with. these activities are things that can be added to CV's and also help promote the company to possible future apprentices. the company also has a social club with lots of things going on. it offers benefits and the chance to try sports that people may not be aware of.

Yes

MBDA offers a great apprenticeship programme that gives young people the opportunity to learn lots about a very interesting and intricate trade. there is lots to learn and the company helps and encourages people to pursue their interests. the benefits of working for such a successful company are plentiful and there will always be support should you need it.

MBDA is a very serious company and the application process is taken very seriously. the company get hundreds of people applying every year and so they are looking to hire the best candidates that they think can benefit the company as well as develop themselves. MBDA encourages apprentices to build their confidence and their knowledge of their trade so that they can finish their apprenticeship scheme fully qualified and prepared for what they may want to do after.