Mechanical Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

I'm a mechanical engineering higher apprentice and I am currently undergoing various placements. On a day to day basis i support engineering teams in completing documents required for major systems design approval. I have been involved in transversal requirements of the engineering function, as well as safety of future submarines.

I've developed interposnal skills through working with key stakeholders. I've also learnt how to comply to with certain company procedures, such as document formatting. I've learnt a lot about how the submarines works, mainly in terms of propulsion and have a deeper understanding of how key systems interact with each other in order to attain safety as well as successful propulsion.

The programme is challenging but also extremely valuable as each day poses a new experience. There are many things I've have learnt which i wouldnt have been able to if chose a different career/educational development route. The support we are provided from our employer is outstanding and makes me feel excited to come to work each day.

The overall programme is quite well structured, ensuring that we experience all the crucial parts of the engineering function so that we are competent engineers within our exit role within the company. Our development plan also encompasses the opportunity to work towards a degree in engineering (over 5 years), with day releases provided by the company to study.

My employer is extremely supportive in all aspects of life. From education and experience enhancement to mental health, my employer provides lines of support to address all problems we may encounter at work as well as at home. All queries and worries are addressed competantly by my employer, consistently proving me with peace fo mind.

My employer encourages higher education program/routes. They push us towards being as academically competent as possible, through funding us to achieve degree level qualifications, all the way up to chartership. They provide lots of other training programmes as well, aside from higher education, to ensure we are as best equipped as possible to preform our role of a mechanical engineer to a high standard.

The qualifications i'm working towards with my training provider directly relate to the everyday requirements of an engineer working on submarine. It allows me to be more comptetent from a mathetical/mechanical sense as well as from a overall business sense. It has allowed me to successfully implement what i've learnt in my everyday duties.

My employer provides conferences to raise awareness of certain social problems within the workplace as well as the surrounding community. There are also 'stretch assignments' aimed towards developing our planning, presentational and interpersonal skills, through delivering STEM sessions to primary school children (for example). A lot of sport activities are also organised throughout the business, however with no direct input from our employer.

Yes

BAE Systems provide exciting and challenging opportunities, which can't be found with any other employer. The standard and importance of their work is at such a high level, it results in them developing you ( the employee) to a high level of competance. They encourage career progression more than most companies.

Make sure that your idea of the role you're applying for is clear through seaking advice from friends/teacher or directly contacting the company. Research into the company as well and impress your assessor with knowledge about the company. Show a desire for academic and personal development. Do not be shy to ask questions- they are expected.