Combat Systems Higher Apprentice Review

My role currently is with the Missions Systems Communications team working in Rosyth on the Prince of Wales Aircraft Carrier. I am embedded as part of the team and spend my time assisting the system lead engineers in undertaking day to day tasks on the various systems that fall into the teams remit. This varies from Audits and paperwork to physical inspections and repairs/installations, as well as liaising with OEM's

I have learned and developed many new skills - My college coursework has given me an in depth knowledge of computing and networks. My experience in the yard has developed my knowledge of H&S and safe working, it has also been excellent for developing problem solving skills. The ability to read and understand cable schematics, find documents in the collaboration portal and update and amend these are all new skills

I have always had a passion for how things work and engineering. The opportunity to learn at college and on the job is priceless. I have the opportunity to witness and undertake tasks at work where I have a huge resource of skilled and experienced engineers to call on for guidance and training. Having moved from the hospitality industry where I had 18 years management experience to become an engineering apprentice was a big gamble. But I couldn't be happier with how it has turned out.

Well planned, a set format that is easy to understand. I also have the opportunity to influence where my placements are, so if there is an area that interests me or I feel I am week in, I can discuss this in my 12 weekly review with my line manager and discuss what exposure I feel I need next and where they think would be good for me to experience

My employer is 100% supportive. There has not been an instance where I haven't been given the full support and backing of the company and my line manager. BAE are an excellent company to work for and their focus on developing the workforce makes being an apprentice with them an enjoyable and rewarding experience

When at college the college provide weekly sessions to undertake the relevant coursework needed. My first year was based entirely at college and the standard of lecturers and teaching was superb. Now that I am in the workplace undertaking an SVQ I receive monthly visits from my assessor at my place of work. She is very supportive and always willing to answer any questions I have

Unfortunately the qualifications I have gained do not currently directly reflect the type of work I am undertaking in the work place. My training was focussed around networking, computing and server administration. At the moment the majority of focus is around systems engineering, however the knowledge gained in networking and computing has been massively beneficial to understanding aspects of the systems.

I have been involved in a couple of golf days and competitions since starting work in Rosyth. I have been invited to works xmas parties and other social events. All of these are generally organised in-house by employee's, none of these have been formal BAE Systems organised events. I do undertake STEM activities through BAE Systems and these can often act as a professional networking event as often there are many other companies at the events including BAE Systems competitors and customers

Yes

The level of training provided by BAE systems whilst giving you the opportunity to learn on the job from highly skilled and experienced engineers is outstanding. The company not only looks after its employee's ensuring they are developed and trained to the highest standards, they also have excellent employee benefits, such as Share option scheme and pension.

The level of investment BAE put into the development of its employee's is exceptional. They provide you with the opportunity to gain qualifications in a college learning environment before moving you into the workplace environment. In the work place you gain valuable insight as you move round placements and projects. Exposing you to all aspects of the shipbuilding lifecycle and gaining valuable knowledge and experience working on various combat systems. If you are looking for a career in Engineering, the apprenticeship route with BAE systems is certainly one worth investigating