Associate Network Engineer Review

My current role is in the 21C design team. My day-to-day work may consist of configuring things for different projects such as BGP peerings or VPRNs. It could also entail doing design verification testing to make sure what we have configured works and then writing up these results into a document.

I have learnt to develop my soft skills through presentations and experiences such as hosting work experience students. These softskills often translate into my day-to-day work as I have more confidence when talking to people. My technical skills have improved a lot and I have a better understanding of networks, how they operate and what BT does.

For the most part I enjoy my programme but the last year of it has been stressful. There are a lot of requirements to meet which include NVQ, summative portfolio, university modules, synoptic project, CCENT exam as well as performing in my operation role. There is a lot to complete in our last year and it feels as if it could have been spread across the years better so it was not so rushed.

I do not feel as if the structure of this programme has been laid out well. I am on a trail blazer apprenticeship and it feels as if the apprentice coaches and other people in charge of us often do not know what is required of us to pass the apprentice or what the time scales are. Often we ask a question about when something will be due in or what the requirements are they do not know and it takes them a while to find out.

I receive a lot of support from my line manager who has regular one to ones with me and helps me develop not only my technical skills but also my soft skills. I have reviews with my apprentice coach every three months. I would not typically contact my apprentice coach for support as I would often go to my line manager for this. However, anytime I have needed to contact my apprentice coach they have been helpful.

I am unaware of who my training provider is so I am unable to say. Without knowing who they are I would say I do not receive any support from them unless I do and am unaware as it comes from my apprentice coach without my knowledge that it has come from my training provider.

It often helps to give a more rounded view of the industry I work in. I build a good knowledge of how BT's network works and how my team works but it is easy to forget there are other ways of working and other network related information that I may not be introduced to trough my operational work.

There is a big emphasis on 'giving back' through volunteering. I have presented to promote the apprenticeship at high schools and colleges as well as hosting high school students on work experience. There are also team events at Christmas time and during the summer there is a bbq. I believe there are sports teams here though I am not a part of them.

Yes

It is a very supportive place to work and the people that work here have a great attitude. They are always willing to help you and to help progress your career. The emphasis on volunteer work and giving back to the community is a key thing that makes me proud of BT and something that I think should be encouraged.

Research into what BT is currently working on and what their values are. If you know anyone that works there chat with them about what they like about working there. Take plenty of time to prepare as interviewers will be able to tell if you are unprepared. Relax and be yourself.