Software Engineer Review

My role is in Robotics Process Automation. Essentially that means working with clients to find repetitive processes that can be made more effective and more efficient by programming a robot to work on that task instead. As a developer, I use several software tools as well as several programming languages that help augment the solutions.

Since starting I have picked up a good grasp of Java and SQL as well as learning some Python and Ruby...and that was mostly whilst at Aston University. Whilst actually at work I've learnt a lot more about working with clients, running effective meetings, thinking more laterally as a developer to try and solve complex problems

I enjoy the programme a lot, I find that it helps massively with self-improvement and that's something I value quite heavily. The programme itself is ideal as it helps get the benefit of achieving a degree whilst not hindering my own career progression. The apprentice community itself is very supportive and fun loving, which adds another dimension to the enjoyment as there are always new people to meet and make friends with inside and outside of work.

The structure of the programme works fine, there's a clear timetable laid out by the university to see when the lectures are scheduled and when things like on-campus days and exams are set. There is a lot of give from the point of Capgemini as they allow a lot of extra study days which helps when deadlines for assignments or exams crop up

I have a point of contact for pretty much any issue that I would face, whether that be around pay, progression, having to take time off to sort out work or any other number of small details. Since starting I've personally been able to go on several training courses to help improve my soft skills, something that won't help me do my job as a developer better but help to make me better in other areas.

There are module leaders assigned for the modules at the university, who are available via E-Mail most of the time. The on-campus days are helpful to get a lot of content in person rather than trying to condense it all into online sessions. One of the modules I'm involved in provides me with a dedicated skills coach who schedules regular meetings to provide advice and insight.

A lot of the things from my course have been helpful so far, part of the first module at the university had a lot of information of getting in the mindset of a developer, breaking down complex problems into simpler ones which have been very useful for my day to day job. Learning things like Javascript has actually helped me in my role as well on occasion

There are plenty of things to do outside of work, there are events within the Graduate & Apprentice (GAP) community. There are days and nights out, there have been dragon boat races (I recommend googling!). Capgemini sponsor a local football team in Telford so there's subsidised tickets for the matches, they are quite heavily involved in Rugby and have games against Capgemini France.

Yes

It may sound cliché but it really is just a great place to work. As an employee, I feel invested in by the company, especially as a degree apprentice. There's a very wide support network and there's a lot of potential for jobs. There are job roles that vary and something for everybody. Technical architect, software developer, business analyst, project manager, recruitment, finance, HR and plenty more!

When you apply to take a look at the values that Capgemini have and see if your own views line up with them. If the answer is yes then you're probably already on the right track. Be honest when going through the application process as some of the questions may relate to the kind of work you'll be doing and saying what you think somebody wants to hear may not always lead to the best result for your own interests.