Combat Systems Higher Apprentice Review

Currently I am involved in the Testing and commissioning side of engineering. Day to day this involves attending meetings and working on spread shseets on various systems that come together to create combat systems.

I have developed several skills from the beginning of my apprenticeship. I have become efficient in the use of autocad and Microsoft excel which have proved to be valuable as I have found myself using these software programmes on a day to day basis. My communication skills have developed as well due to interacting with engineers on a daily basis.

I enjoy my programme as there are always different challenges coming up each day. I am finding myself becoming more involved in things I never thought I would have when I first started. Each day I learn something new and look forward to coming in to work to see what challenge awaits for me.

My programme is well organised having reviews often with our line manager who is not only supportive but is looking out for our best interests as we progress in the business. My time spent in college however I feel that some planning into that side of things should be taken. As mentioned previously I am using autocad however I had to teach myself this as we were not in college. Other than that a lot of time is taken to make sure my best interests are taken into consideration when decisions must be made.

I am happy with the support I receive from my employer as there have been times where I have needed additional support. I was off work on medical grounds and my line manager made sure I came back to work without and problems and also made sure I received physiotherapy which I have found extremely beneficial in my recovery.

I receive a good amount of support when in regards to my qualifications. the staff delivering the courses are approachable and are always happy to help make sure that you achieve the best grade you are capable of. They do go out of their way if we do need any help outside of college and make myself feel confident to approach them when I have a problem.

My qualification is in computing however working in an engineering industry I do see some disadvantages to this. The computing side of things I feel very capable using different types of software however if were to gain an additional qualification in an engineering discipline I would feel more rounded and perhaps more confident in working in this engineering environment.

Not that I am aware of.

Yes

I feel BAE systems are a fantastic company to work for striving to be the best in their industry and the projects they are involved in make me feel proud to be a part of. the company is massive and I feel privileged to be a part of it and hope to remain here for many more happy years.

Be yourself. Do not pretend to be someone you are not. when It comes to online aptitude testing I would advise that a lot of revision is necessary as some of the questions are there to catch you out and really make you think but if you put the work in before you sit these then this will pay off.