Engineering Technician Apprentice Review

In my role as an Engineering Technician I spend time on site gaining experience and knowledge in different sectors. This can include a range of disciplines ranging from Research and Development to Testing or Product Validation.

Each project I am placed on allow me to develop my understanding of various engineering disciplines. This is paticularly interesting with the development of electrified vehicles becoming a larger sector of the car industry.

The programme has a good level of variety in the activities/projects I am involved in over the year. The staff and other apprentices are all open, respectful and get along as an exceptional team.

BMW Group values apprentices very highly, this is through the facility to develop apprentices to the exact standard expected by a company such as BMW. This can also be seen as apprentices are given equal benefits to standard employees including access to the car scheme from day one. BMW also likes to ensure an outward presence with apprentices taking part and even organising charity events. I have organised one myself in which a number of apprentices will complete the 3 Peaks National Challenge to raise money for MacMillan Cancer Support.

The programme has been in place for a number of years and has been refined during this time to allow a smooth and confident experience. The new changes to apprentice examinations are being tackled with vigour and many other companies are looking at BMW to set the example regarding these changes.

Support is excellent from all training providers throughout the apprenticeship with any issues quickly resolved through clear and efficient communication between BMW and the training provider.

All the support an individual requires can be accessed easily through placement/apprenticeship managers. These managers can efficiently solve the issue or direct apprentices to the most appropriate other party.

Salary is varied over the course of the apprenticeship with increases available every 6 months. The pay over the 4 years ranges from £13,000 up to £25,000. For the area this is quite low, paticularly for those who need to move for the position. Pay rises on completion of the course as apprentices move into their role and is then competitive for the industry and location.

There are many excellent opportunities outside of work ranging from company events to outdoor challenges. There is also a large facility to perform charity activities with support from the company.

Yes

The apprenticeship is an excellent way to gain both a degree and a vast volume of engineering knowledge and experience whilst being paid to do so. The prospects are good for apprentices completing their course with apprentices only being recruited for positions to fill in the future. This also includes the facility to be employed over seas if there is a position available.

Be yourself and sell your strongest qualities. If you're motivated, have the drive to excel and the correct qualifications then you already have the potential as a strong candidate.