Engineering technical apprentice Review

I work each day within the business providing support to engineers that are training me while learning everything I can from them so both parties are benefitting. Currently I work in testing and commissioning so I'm partly responsible for different systems on board a naval ship which I inspect and reject or accept before handing it over to the customer (royal navy).

I have further developed my electrical skills on the practical side and continued to improve my qualifications through day release at college where I have one HNC in eng systems and I'm working towards another HNC in electrical and HND also.

In my current placement I enjoy the work very much, there is always a lot to do and each day goes by quickly. I have been given a lot of responsibility which allows me to feel like I'm making a decent contribution to the team. Through my apprenticeship there are other placement which I know I might not enjoy as much but the overall experience is enjoyable and any chance to learn about engineering and the business is worthwhile.

I feel very valued by BAE, most managers and people I work with day in day out tell me how important apprentices are as the next generation of ship builders. This sentiment is reinforced with the work I've been given which Is actually contributing to the finished product.

The programme is relatively well structured, there has been some issues with placements either due to departments not wanting apprentices or being unprepared for us. More communication from a placement before we go there could be beneficial so we can get set up with the appropriate software and permissions etc.

I receive a decent amount of support, being well into second year now I tend not to need the support as much, any issues I have are usually small and I can solve them on my own or with the help of my placement line manager.

My employer is willing to help whenever asked although I haven't come across a situation yet where I've really required help.

As I am an older apprentice and no longer live at home and struggle slightly with the apprentice salary. I have a second job which covers all my expenses, however leaves little time free. The apprentice salary in the 4th year is more suitable for me to cover my costs.

There are plenty of opportunities outside of work to take part in events etc. As an example, this June all the 2nd year apprentices are taking place in a week long outward bound event in Eskdale as a team and skill building exercise.

Yes

Because I have had good experiences with the company so far and believe there is a lot of opportunity to progress and learn while working towards a worthwhile career, plus we have work for the next 10/15 years which is reassuring.

I would advise anyone wanting to apply to BAE systems to be a good communicator and enjoy working well as part of a team as this is essential to succeed. Apart from this you have to be eager to learn and have the right attitude, the rest can be taught from BAE and the associated college. At interviews and assessment days I'd say be confident and don't overthink or get nervous, they're relaxed and fun believe it or not and if you're relaxed it shows you in the best light.