Network Engineer Review

My role as an apprentice at BT is to Test and validate different technologies that will be going into the UK's core network. This involves working with various different vendors such as Cisco and Nokia. on a day to day I will perform network tests and will document the results to prove the equipment we use does what it says on the tin

At BT I have learnt many different skills. One of these is how set up a network test it and then maintain, I have learnt this through a mix of on the job training as well as at university. I have also developed many personal skills such as my presentations skills aswell as communication skills

I have greatly enjoyed my apprenticeship so far. I have rotated through 4/5 different areas and have therefore had a large amount of exposure to different teams in the business. I have also built are key relationships with people within these teams which will help me when I finish and become a full time employee

Overall I would say the rotation scheme is a very well organised scheme at BT, allowing you to see different areas so you can find out what you enjoy the most. This can be anything from project delivery to network operations. On occasions you have to fill in for the sake of business need but as an apprentice I understand this as the sake of the business is the most important thing

I receive a large amount of support from my line manager, experienced team members who are currently in the team I am in, to my apprentice coach. People able to talk to these people easily means I can consult more experienced team members when I need assistance technically. My line manager is also always available in case I need to consult him on any out of work or personal matters.

I have received a good amount of support when it comes to university work from university of Suffolk. Lecturers are always available via email or in person to answer any questions regarding assignments or exams. This is ideal as often guidance is needed to be able to get the best grades possible.

The technical qualification I will gain at uni aswell as the Cisco qualification I will gain at work will be huge in my development as a network engineer. being able to up skill in these technical areas will allow me to be more independent and understand the technology I am testing and working on

There are often various sports tournaments at BT from table tennis tournaments to charity football matches to get involved in. These events are good for team building and allows me to be able to socialise with colleagues outside of the work environment. There are also summer bbq's and Christmas events which are always good fun to be involved in.

Yes

The amount of opportunity at such a big company at Bt for an apprentice is fantastic. Especially as you rotate through different areas of the business. this allows you to see the bigger picture of the business and means you are highly likely to find something you really enjoy doing like I have done in the Network Test team

I would say to make sure you're application shows that you are passionate and really want to join BT as this is a really competitive apprenticeship to get on. I would do some research before applying on what is going on in the business so that applicants can speak about these in their interview/application etc