Programme Engineer Review

My role during my apprenticeship is as a Utilities Engineering Technician. The work is mostly reactive mechanical maintenance work on Waste Water Treatment assets. It is really interesting, varied work and it has allowed me to develop my problem solving skills as well as taking on additional responsibilities for maintenance and monitoring asset health.

During my apprenticeship I have completed a number of qualifications. As part of my apprenticeship I went to college on a day release basis and completed Level 3 Mechanical Maintenance Engineering, Level 2 PEO, Level 1 Welding and fabrication as well as HNC Mechanical Engineering. Internally I have completed my Level 3 NVQ in Mechanical Maintenance. My problem solving skills have improved massively as a result of the reactive work I carry out day to day. I have also developed my mentoring skills, working closely with new intakes of apprentices into the company.

The work I do is extremely enjoyable. The sense of accomplishment you receive when you've returned a piece of kit back to service is fantastic. The company is focussed on looking after our customers & our environment which aligns well with my personal beliefs. I have gained a lot of new friends throughout my time with the company so far and the friendly atmosphere creates a really positive working environment.

I feel extremely valued and well rewarded by Severn Trent. The internal system we have for recognising outstanding performance works really well to motivate me to do the best work that I can. I have received internal awards for my performance on the apprenticeship scheme, I won Apprentice Of The Year in 2015. I've also been recognised externally by organisations such as the EEF Manufacturers Organisation & All About School Leavers. I have always been treated as a valued member of the team and my voice and opinions have never been seen as less important than other more senior team members.

I found my scheme to be well organised and the structure of it worked really well for me. It worked on the basis of 1 day per week day release at college. I found the balance between practical work and college gave me a well rounded view of my role and the skills I needed. I received great support throughout and I've always been encouraged to develop further.

My tutors have always been very supportive at Rotherham College and I have received a great level of 1-1 support when needed. I think this is one of the main reasons for my good performance. I have had a really positive training experience overall and any minor issues I've had have always been resolved quickly.

I receive great support from all areas of the business, as well as having my line manager as a point of contact I also have mentors in other areas of the business who can sometimes provide a new perspective on the best way of doing things/solving a problem. It is part of the fabric of the business to support eachother and I believe this is what makes it such a positive place to work.

I am extremely satisfied with my salary and it allows me to live comfortably. Compared to other people in similar jobs at different companies I feel I am well paid.

We have a scheme set up within Severn Trent called Community Champions where we work with out local communities, whether this is schools, public spaces, community centres etc. we work with them to make their spaces better and more pleasant to spend time in.

Yes

It is an exciting place to work, we're constantly investing in new innovations and trying to find better ways of doing things. Its also a really supportive environment and generally a good place to work.

Try to gain some kind of work experience prior to the interview stage, having practical knowledge of the industry will help you hugely when it comes to the assessment days. View every opportunity with an open mind and try everything once. One of these opportunities could lead to future career progression.