Engineering Technician Apprentice Review

I perform some tasks that can take a long time and others that can be done in half a day. There is a lot of variation to what I am asked to do complex drawings to updating to a spreadsheet to a latest version I always have something to do and which helps me learn new skills.

I have added an HNC in Engineering Systems to my qualifications and am working towards my HND while also completing an HNC in Electrical Engineering. I have completed numerous training courses in the business to ensure that I can work safely and efficiently. Along with this I have learned how to use numerous different computer programs so complete my everyday role and learned a lot about the working atmosphere.

I am thoroughly enjoying the work I am being given and all the teams I move in to are very inviting and understanding of my learning. I really enjoy their support and patience with me while I am trying to understand the work. The programme so far has pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me drive my learning forward to meet my aspirations. I enjoy the pressure it puts on me as it is pushing me to better my future.

I feel that the company value their apprentices very much and feel very welcome in any team and meeting that I attend. They are not slow to tell you that many Engineering Managers started as apprentices and allows me to understand just how much they value their apprentices and the opportunities available.

I feel that the programme is very well structured and everything is worthwhile. We are well trained for the work we will be undertaking and supported through everything should something be bothering us or we are struggling with something. However the organisation of my placement plan has been a little shaky with some departments not expecting an apprentice and one not being able to take me.

My training officer offers me support at any time I feel I need it. We have 12 week reviews to monitor our progress and this is done in the form of a meeting with my training officer and manager at the time. During this meeting, my progress is discussed and any issues or queries I have are answered and guidance issued where applicable.

The managers in all the teams I have worked in so far have been very supporting and have sculpted my learning to strengthen my weaknesses. All of managers are wanting me to do well and will support me in doing so as I progress forward. Any problems I have had, my manager has taken the time to sit down with me and give me guidance to try and rectify it.

My salary meets my costs very well. I am very happy with the pay I am receiving as an apprentice.

The company pushed us to become STEM Ambassadors to help us become more confident and able to talk to people about what we do and stand up and talk which is very daunting coming straight out of school. I have recently taken part in an apprenticeship awareness event at Glasgow Clyde College describing what I do and explaining the programme to those interested. I will also be attending a 3 day event at Lancaster University for the Smallpeice Trust.

Yes

Very good employers and treat their employees very well. You get good training and experience work in the business at the same time. You are pushed to become the best version of yourself and which has made me very happy with the career opportunities opening up for me.

Just be organised. The BAE applications open early and close early in February due to the long recruitment process. Complete mock aptitude tests online to gain an understanding of the format of the test so you can perform well. Prepare a good presentation and do homework on BAE Systems and the program you are applying to before taking your interview.