Combat Systems Engineer Review

My role at BAE Systems can be incredibly varied depending on what project my placement is, as well as the build stage of the ship we are working on. My time on the Type 26 project was primarily office based, it involved attending meetings with different teams both internally and externally. Meetings were held to discuss the application of the design, ensuring requirements are met as well as to resolve any issues that arise. I have also participated in placements on projects at the other end of the build phase, such as the OPV program. The OPV program is in the process of delivering completed ships to the Royal Navy so my day to day work involves spending a lot more time on ship where I work within my team to communicate with various production teams to ensure requirements are completed on time and up to a high standard.

Through my placements I have been exposed to the workings of a large engineering company and have had the opportunity to witness first-hand how a large number of teams working together towards the same goal can produce such a large, complex product. This has allowed me to develop a large range of transferable skills such as computing proficiency, communication skills as well as the ability to manage various tasks in a timely manner. I have achieved a HNC in Computing and I am currently working towards my HND. I have also achieved vendor qualifications from Microsoft and Cisco Systems.

Overall I have thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship program. I have gained experience in many teams and each placement I participate in presents with new challenges to overcome and learn from. I have experienced learning in a purely academic environment before I applied for BAE Systems and I can now compare this with learning on the job as I do now and I can say that I prefer the latter. The company is very enthusiastic in investing in early careers and there are so many opportunities here that I can't wait to fully take advantage of.

My program is fairly well organised. I work closely with a specific team for each placement and if ever I feel the need to ask for help I always know where to turn. My main concern with my program is the academic side of it. My day to day role in the workplace is Engineering and our academic studies are solely based around computing and IT. I have enjoyed these courses as I have always had an interest in computing, however it has not had any real relevance to the job at all.

I have had to travel to various different sites throughout my placements and there has always been travel provided or I have been reimbursed for my expenses. The company also endeavours to provide all employees with support through any of life's issues or problems through an Employee Assistance programme. This is a 24 hours support service providing support for anything from stress assessment to legal advice.

My class consists of only 8 apprentices and we received a lecture just for us. This meant that there was plenty of time for us to ask questions and there was always help there when we needed it. The lectures all had open door policies so we could freely contact them via email or in person to discuss any issues we were having.

I have always had an interest in the subject matter that we study at college and I have enjoyed earning these qualifications. However, I do not feel like they have been any benefit to our performance in our roles at all. The biggest help that my qualifications have given me in the workplace is the fact that I can provide my older colleagues in the office with some IT support.

I have had the opportunity to get involved in many STEM events where I have been able to represent the company. I have attended events such as career fairs and school outreach programs. This has given a good opportunity to network in the wider world of engineering. In terms of social activities there aren't a lot available right now, although I think more social activities and networking events are in the process of being introduced.

Yes

If you are interested in engineering I think a BAE Systems apprenticeship is one of the best ways to begin your career. The company is willing to invest so much in its early careers sector and you really feel like the company values you and wants you to succeed. It is a huge worldwide company with plenty of opportunities to apply to various roles within the business once you complete your apprenticeship. It also has quite high wages for an apprenticeship which is also good.

Put your heart and soul into your application. It's something I spent a long time working on before sending. Also, look into the company and what we're building at the time, this makes for a good conversation at the assessment day. And don’t think you’re too late! I know so many people that end up in a career path that they cannot progress in or do not enjoy and would never leave because they think it’s too late. Apprenticeships have a bit of a stigma these days as being only aimed at school leavers. I took a big risk leaving a space in a high esteemed university for an apprenticeship to find that it was the best decision I’ve ever made. There are just so many opportunities at BAE that you can take advantage of no matter where you are in your career.