Apprentice service technician Review

The apprenticeship is at Tyne met college in Newcastle for the first 18 months. Most of the time this is theory work (assessments). It's a full time college course so you will be staying down in Newcastle. You will be reviewed by the employer every 3 months or so.

Most of the work is theory, this includes learning about different type of mechanical systems and some electrical work too. You will learn about servicing in engineering, hydraulics and pneumatics. I've personally learned some interesting information in my class about motors. There isn't much practical work during your first year.

I have enjoyed seeing my progress continue throughout the months. I have learned some interesting things in my classes. I feel like I could be learning more and some classes aren't well structured. I also feel college life can be a bit repetitive but this is expected. It has been an interesting experience.

Lessons can drag out through the weeks and sometimes not much gets done. There are many of our classes that has been well structured, we all know exactly what we should be doing. In other classes the vibe seems to be that we will just see where it goes which can be confusing.

My employer has been great and tries to keep us as informed as she is able to. Plans are made a little last minute sometimes which can feel hectic. I feel comfortable approaching my apprenticeship coordinator but can't comment on the rest of the team as we don't communicate much with them.

I feel I receive as much support as I need. I haven't felt I have had to contact anyone about my progress at college. I would feel comfortable if I had to contact someone on how I was doing and coping with the assessments. The coordinator is very approachable.

I don't know how relevant my time at college will be towards my role at Siemens. Some of my classes seem relevant such as learning about bearings and gears. Other lessons don't feel beneficial to my career but it is part of the requirement to be able to join Siemens.

The company does have Christmas parties and tries to get people to interact and spend time together. Most of our time in the apprenticeship is spent at college and continuing with our qualification. I don't currently know of any other events that happens in the company but I am sure it would be easy to ask.

Yes

Siemens is a good place to start your career. The qualification you will receive can help you advance throughout your career. Completing an apprenticeship can make it easier to get into a engineering position but there is a lot of work to put in and a lot of commitment within.

Be realistic on your expectations. Make sure engineering is something you really want to do as it is a huge commitment to leave home and what feels like starting a new life. Research about the company before joining and find out more about the life of a wind turbine technician.