Line leader Review

Maintenance associate, my role will include carrying out planned maintenance on production machinery and equipment. I will also be required to provide support to any breakdowns that occur to help get the facility back up and running as soon as possible. I would lease with all the different departments in the business to provide support wherever needed. On occasion i would be given projects to carry out

I am currently working towards a level 3 NVQ and a level 3 diploma as part of my advanced engineering apprenticeship. I have learnt many new skills while being at college, these include using machines such as mills and lathes as well as learning wiring and soldering skills in electronics. I have also developed a basic understanding of PLC’s and have recently started a unit on electrical wiring and installation. On top of all the college courses BMW have also provided additional training such as first aid.

I have really enjoyed my first year so far, having already worked for the company for nearlly 25 years before starting my apprenticeship i was a little unsure of how i would find college and how well i would cope. This years group has 9 people of varying ages and i have found that the level of support for each other has been outstanding. I'm really looking forward to get back on plant next year to continue my learning.

I feel very valued by the company, i have always had a very good working relationship with all my managers over the years. The fact that the company has invested a lot of money in my mature apprenticeship for me to increase my tecnical knowledge is recognition of the hard work and commitment over the years. I have also been involved in many projects over the years.

The training is provided by swindon college, i have found that overall the college has organised the program very well, we are currently covering 17 NVQ units and 6 deploma in the first year. We have regular meeting with our manager from work and with our training supervisor from college to discuss any issues or problems we may have.

At college we have a training supervisor that we have a regular review with to check we are keeping on track of all our college work, she is also our first port of call for any issues at college. The college also provides additional support wherever its needed, for myself this has been some additional maths support that has been arranged on both a wednesday and thursday evening which i have found very helpful and has helped my obtain a distinction on my maths diploma unit.

I have always found the level of support from the company very good, the HR deparment are always on hand for and issues at work or in your personal life. All the managers i've had over the years have also been very supportive when i have had any problems or issues. My current manager has an open door policy and is always avalible to talk to if i have any issues or require some advice.

Being a mature apprentice i was fortunate in keeping my existing salary, the location of the plant and college mean that traveling there and back is only a matter of driving a few miles there and back. For the new apprentices who joined this year i beleve there salary is very competative with regular pay reviews.

When i first joined the apprenticeship program all apprentices were taken away to skern lodge for a week of teem building. Apprentices from all 4 sites, oxford, swindon, hams hall and goodwood all attended so it was a great opportunity to meet some new people. The company also run a mountain challange event every year and there is very often a team entry from the apprentices. The company also hold regular events at colleges and schools to showcase the BMW apprenticeship.

Yes

I have found BMW to be an excellent company to work for over the years, the company offer some great benefits on top of a very competative salary, these include several bonuses throughout the year, a very good pension plan with the company putting in a very large contribution on top of your own and access to the company car scheme from the day after you join.

Anyone looking to apply should do some research on the company. The assessment day would normally consist of a group activity, some online tests, an individual activity and an interview. Some engineering back ground knowledge and/or experience would be an addvantage.