Engineering Technician Apprentice Review

Throughout my different placements I tackle various activities regarding mechanical engineering and shipbuilding. Due to the nature of my apprenticeship it is primarily design work I am carrying out. This can range from 2D/3D modelling to managing the contents of a system to raising changes and following that process to completion.

Throughout my apprenticeship so far I have been able to develop on the skills I already possess like communicating and team building by putting them into practice in real world work. I have gained many new skills like IT skills, managing my time correctly and been able to look at jobs with a different frame of mind.

I have enjoyed multiple aspects of my apprenticeship. I have enjoyed networking, making new contacts within the business. I have also enjoyed working on real life engineering projects as I find this easier to learn with the examples that I will actually be working with. I have enjoyed the requirement of having to be independent and responsible for my learning.

My programme is very well structured. I follow a 2 year placement plan that was aligned to me at the beginning of my apprenticeship. The plan has followed strict deadlines and flowed. In college we have carried out work on the necessary qualifications for the course and worked to tight well informed deadlines.

I receive a lot of support from my employer on any issue that arises. I have a training officer that I can speak to on any issue I have and they also ensure that everything runs smoothly throughout the apprenticeship. In my team I have support in the work I am carrying out and my manager is available to talk to regarding any issue I am having.

When working towards my qualifications I get the required support from the college. We have access to a virtual learning environment that has the necessary documents for the studying that will be carried out. The lecturers are also on hand when we need to discuss issues with them. In work we are allowed extra time to study and complete coursework when required.

The qualifications I work towards in college give me the engineering knowledge that I will need to apply in the workplace. It allows s to understand the theoretical aspects of engineering that we will need to carry into our work. In work we are able to turn use this knowledge and develop it to understand how it is used in real life situations.

Becoming a STEM ambassador at the beginning of our apprenticeship allowed us to go to schools and external events to promote engineering to the younger generation. We have also been able to carry out charity work through the engineering council. The engineering council has constructed a social committee that will in future organise events for apprentices.

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems to anyone looking for a career in engineering. In BAE Systems you are giving the opportunity to carry out the qualifications you require. When in the work place you will be given every opportunity to learn on the job and be involved in advanced engineering projects.

The advice I would give to anyone applying to BAE Systems is to ensure that you are willing to work hard and give your full attention to the course. Network with as many people as possible that will allow you to learn as much as possible and assist you when required.