Engineering Technician Apprentice Review

My role varies depending on which placement I am in. Currently I am in the Platform Monitoring and Control department and I define the functionality of signals in preparation for software drops and testing. I communicate with the Integration team and use data provided as I work towards producing a document which will be like a specification that will be used at EITF. On Tuesdays I attend college as I study towards further education.

I have learnt many new skills during my time in the programme. In college I've studied many different subjects mainly focussed on Electrical Engineering. I also picked up practical skills like welding, wiring and pipe fitting. Within my placement I have developed existing skills like IT skills and communication. Here I have also learned the theory behind electrical cabling and signal functions.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme. I was out of education for years and was quite demotivated in an admin job so I have really appreciated learning new skills and the challenge of being part of a huge project. Throughout the programme I will move between placements and departments so I will get to experience different parts of the company which I am looking forward to.

The programme is organised very well. The first year was full time college so you don't really experience the workplace however during the Easter holidays I went on a two week placement which was helpful for preparing me to start at the company. I have been given a two year placement plan so I know where and when I will be going in each phase.

I receive full support from my employer. I get a sense that they value their apprenticeship programme highly so they make sure our experience is positive. We have a training officer who mainly supported us through our year at college and then within placements my managers have always been available to provide any help.

The training provider provides the best possible environment to help us achieve our qualifications. We studied full time at college in first year and are now on day release and we have plenty of time and opportunity to study. We really have to use our own initiative to make sure we are prepared for exams and projects at college so the training provider can only do so much.

My qualification has given me many valuable skills which are relatable to the tasks that I do in my role. I have enhanced my IT skills which is important as my day to day work always involves working on the computer. I learned how to use CAD which I used during my first placement. Studying different electrical subjects has helped me gain an understanding of the theory behind the data I have been using.

Within the apprenticeship programme there will be opportunities for activities. They have recently carried out a survey to get feedback about what the best type of activities would be. There are chances to take part in charity events like for example there was an email sent out recently for the Yorkshire 3 Peaks challenge.

Yes

I would definitely recommend this programme to someone I know as it has been a great career choice for myself. Learning new skills and having the opportunity to gain qualifications whilst earning a wage is invaluable. It is also exciting to know you are part of a massive project like designing a ship.

I would say to be confident and have the right attitude. If you are prepared to work hard then you will find the apprenticeship a great experience and very rewarding. There is plenty of support available at college and in the workplace so you will have everything there for you to excel so it's just a case of taking that opportunity.