Structural Apprentice Review

I am currently training to become a technician, so I am mainly involved in CAD work and finding solutions to some basic geometric and general problem solving tasks as I don't have substantial knowledge to solve more complex engineering tasks unless it is under the supervision of someone with more experience. I also help out in the office with a variety of other odds tasks where I'm needed.

Yes, I have become more competent in using a variety of new CAD software such as: MicroStation, Bluebeam and Revit. I have also touched on my general PC skills with programmes like Microsoft Office. Working in an office environment has helped me to become more mature, and improve my people skills. I also feel more organised as a person since I started work and have been attending college.

I love what I do, I feel excited getting out of the bed in the morning and I feel motivated to come into work. The work that goes in the office is of a high interest to me, and it is something that I have been interested in for a while now, so it feels like a dream come true to be working in at one of the UK's best engineering companies.

Most people that I have completed work for seem very grateful for my efforts. I have been given two pay rises since my start and I am gaining qualifications for free, so I feel very valued by most. There are also apprentice meetings where we can discuss the positives and negatives of our programmes, and what changes could be made to better the experience for us.

The structure through Arup's involvement seems straight forward and easy to grasp after some explaining, however the structure from the involvement at Stegta and the college I attend isn't as good. I don't feel that this will majorly hinder my performance though, as I have my buddy, mentor and line manager to help me with any questions I have.

I have as much support available as I ask for, I am able to email in and ask questions as I please, however he may sometimes take a couple of days to reply. For the most part, the NVQ work has been explained very clearly, and the feedback given is straight forward, allowing me to improve on what I have already written. The regular review sessions help me to stay on track.

Again, I have as much support as I ask for. I sit right next to my buddy who is there to mainly support me with any quick, short questions about the workplace or the work I am doing. I also have my line manager and mentor to ask more complex intricate questions. Most of the other staff are very friendly too, so I can ask others if I need help as well.

The salary gives me everything I need for someone of my age. The travel costs do take quite a large chunk, but there is still plenty left after. I also receive regular salary reviews, and I receive lump sums for completing qualifications. There is also an annual profit share, where because all Arup employees are shareholders, we receive a lump sum from the profit share each year.

There are lots of different portfolios in work and committees that you can join. There is also a social committee for each group within Arup. This committee arranges regular social outings that you can attend. There are a variety of different events that take place over the year ensuring there is something for everyone. There are also lots of different sports teams that you can take place in.

Yes

Since my start at Arup I have felt valued and appreciated. I didn’t feel like I had been thrown into the deep end, but the tasks that have been set for me give me enough of a challenge that I can still complete the tasks but I learn something along the way. I have been given lots of support in my learning and most of the people here are very friendly.

I would advise that you take every opportunity available to you that you are interested in so that you make the most of your time here. Explore around as there are lots of different possibilities. Also, if you aren’t happy or pleased with something that has happened throughout your experience, say something and make a change about it as it is a very flexible company.