Naval Architecture Higher Apprentice Review

My day to day role involves completing calculations for build support, using CAD software to cerate models for 3D interaction analysis, and using simulation software to assess the performance of the product under different conditions. Report writing is also a day to day task to accompany calculations or simulations conducted in order to record and present the outcomes of the tasks.

I have developed my people skills working in a complex work environment where you are among professional engineers, with years experience to share should you be willing to learn. You must also work with other departments - further developing your networking skills. I have also learned to manage work loads when given multiple tasks, and work life balance having degree work, home life, and tasks at work to balance.

I enjoy my program a lot, I enjoy coming into work every day knowing that I am faced with a new and interesting task. the rotation of placements means that you can see a wide range of the work performed in the business. The early careers team is easy to get in contact with should you need to ask any questions, or have any issues.

My programme is well structured, we have an induction week at the beginning to settle into the business. We then receive education towards our degrees. There are 12 weekly catch ups with early careers to ensure we are on track in out scheme, as well as being issued with a mentor in the business.

my employer provides support through the 12 weekly reviews, where you are asked if you have any issues in your current placement. The early careers team are also easy to get hold of, should you have a more emergent issue, or emails are picked up quickly should they not be available.

My training provider offers a lot of support through tutors being available to contact with any questions. Along with progress meetings every week, a one to one every semester to, along with sessions with tutors to ask any questions or complete work with assistance if you are struggling with a topic.

My training is a mechanical engineering degree, I feel that the learning taught as part of this furthers my knowledge on engineering, allowing me to apply it in the workplace to problems, and things that I see whilst walking around the shop floor. Or when in meetings with other engineers being able understand some of the more technical aspects.

Many people in work are part of social activities outside of work, such as model engineering society's, football teams, rugby teams. There are also lectures put on by the barrow district association of engineers through the year which count towards CPD but are also interesting topics with good speakers.

Yes

BAE Systems is a great company to work for, the work is interesting and varied, there are good options for progression, mentors available to help with chartership progression also. The salary is competitive and the location being close to the lake district is great, as well as the surrounding area.

When applying for BAE Systems make sure that your application form is clear, possibly have it proof read by somebody you know would pick out any mistakes. Make sure you have work experience on there somewhere - even if it is volunteer work - and keep things simple, not too wordy so that you would get bored reading it through to the end.