Associate Project Manager Review

I'm a PM Apprentice in a governance/business assurance role. I assist in compliance of contracts using within UK Programmes and help manage the contract status review process. I also own the workspace site for our team, and as such manage our intranet's website, the documents within it and the access granted.

I have massively improved my organisational skills as well as my communication. Working in the office environment has helped me mature and act as a working professional. I have also become much more sociable, as my time out of work is now limited to weekends I make the most of my spare time.

I do enjoy my programme, but mainly for the benefits it brings and the competencies it helps develop. It is hard work, but I am rewarded by my hard work with a highly competitive salary. I enjoy being on the scheme as it is very social, with 17 other people my age.

I feel highly valued by BAE Systems. All other working professionals in the company respect me and I feel confident to raise any issues or concerns I may have. We are looked after to a great extent and things such as safeguarding and our own wellbeing are always put first by our managers and scheme leaders.

My programme consists of five, twelve month long placements in different areas of the business. The scheme has matured having existed for a decade now and as such it is very well managed and everyone on the scheme is given a very well structured apprenticeship, exploring different areas and different roles, well suited to the individual's needs.

I receive huge support from our training providers, Blackpool and Fylde College (accredited by Lancaster University). The tutors are available via email 24/7, and are committed to helping however they can in person on college days. The level of support is appropriate to my level of experience and maturity and we are treated as both working professionals and keen students.

I do not believe any other employer provides more support than BAE systems. Not only am I given a highly competitive salary, but any issues I my have are always appreciated and listened to by the scheme leaders, who are helpful and supportive. The job benefits are fantastic and the support received is tremendous. We have regular 12 week reviews to check everything is absolutely fine.

I feel my salary is matched perfectly to my lifestyle. I have enough income to cover driving to work every day, running a car, paying rent and going out most weekends for social events. I could not justify earning any more than I do at the moment.I can balance my work and social life well and I know if I ever had financial issues, BAE Systems would provide me with help and assistance.

there are many opportunities outside of work. Not only is the scheme massively social, with 17 others my age, events such as football (5 a side and 8 a side), numerous charity events and charity committees are available. Alongside the ability to start any event yourself with the empowerment and confidence provided by being on this highly competitive scheme.

Yes

High salary along with a paid education. The ability to have a social life whilst earning and learning. Experience with a huge multinational company and the opportunity to develop countless competencies. The opportunity to travel further along in the scheme so Saudi, USA, RAF Bases within the UK. An employer that values you. Earn more at 18 than most others will at 23.

No rush to apply early, spend as much time on your application as possible and you must understand that they are not expecting you to be an expert in project management; so don't pretend you are. Speak and explain your competencies that relate to project management such as organisation and communication, and make sure you have in depth, detailed and convincing examples. Study hard for any tests you are given and remember to be well organised, smart and confident.