Digitization apprentice Review

My apprenticeship is called the digitalisation apprenticeship usually I am rotating around the following IT departments; Business analysis, project management, IS operations, development, data analysis and test analysis before picking an area I would like to go into. however currently I am helping out on an invoicing project. On a day to day basis currently I am analysing why certain transactions have been made interacting with others in the residential team and the project managers leading the project.

From an educational stand point I am undertaking a HNC in computing and an NVQ in work competency. The current HNC topics are networks and system architecture and also security. These subjects have build on my knowledge that I have gained throughout the rotations I have already done in the business. on my rotations I have learnt some basic skills required in each sub department so far being Business analysis, project management, IS Ops and development. I have also improved my speaking communication skills.

The amount of enjoyment varies on each department. I enjoyed business analysis the most as I studied business related subjects at college even though the role was not at all how described on the job application but I believe changes have been made so the application is no longer like this. The companies culture as a whole is fantastic, the employees are always welcoming of any questions or help needed.

As an apprentice I feel incredibly valued by Siemens. I am seen as the future of the organisation and everyone is more than happy to help in any problems I face. I have been asked for my input into multiple things and have met many people from the local member of parliament to the head of Siemens UK operations to talk to them about my experiences.

Within Siemens the apprenticeship is structured extremely well, everyone is on the same page and knows when rotations are and what must be delivered in a rotation. The induction process was rushed however this has been amended for the future. The support from within the organisation is also amazing as I know who I can go to for help and everyone is more than happy to help me. However from a college stand point there is less structure as sessions can feel even unplanned but this is manageable as everything can be clarified with a few questions as the support is good at the college.

There are two training providers GK apprenticeships and Beeston college. GK apprenticeship provide plenty of support and guidance on tasks with monthly progress reviews and send feedback on any work submitted. Beeston College also offer both through physical feedback and feedback over e-mails to let me know what should be included in my work and what I can do better.

I receive a lot of support through my employer as there are quarterly progress meetings to see how I am getting on, Guidance from previous apprentices on the apprentice process. Throughout my process of rotating around the organisation If I have asked anything in particular or asked for a little more coverage on a certain aspect, time has been put aside for it.

My salary covers my costs quite well as I have a sufficient amount of money to travel to work, create savings and have an adequate social life outside of work however I do live at home so I do have less costs to cover than others might have. The salary as an apprentice also increases each year as I will have more skills and therefore more value to the company.

Outside of work there are often social gatherings and there is also voluntary work in the local community.

Yes

I would recommend Siemens to a friend as it is a very supportive company with a lot of career versatility. Siemens also are very welcoming of new ideas and approaches and promote growth of not only them as a business but also you as an individual.

Be yourself and don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. If you have any questions at all no matter how insignificant you may think they are ask someone.