Instrumentation & Controls Technician Apprentice Review

I am an instrumentation and controls technician apprentice. In my role I work with the electrician, controls engineer and electrical engineer for most of my training. We typically deal with the issues caused by sensors and meters, and help to determine the cause of why an alarm has gone off. We are also required to install or re-calibrate these sensors and meters as per the preventative maintenance schedule.

I am continuously learning new skills while working with experienced people. There is always something to learn on every job we complete. I have also been developing existing skills, typically the practical skills, ones I have picked up in school but am continuing to practice while working in the field.

I greatly enjoy my programme. After taking a 2-year diploma in school I knew this was a career path I would enjoy so I stuck by it very closely. I am happy to have a chance at GSK to apprentice under skilled workers to learn more about the job everyday.

The program does not have a set schedule most days, as we work on equipment that is having issues. We try to schedule preventative maintenance throughout the week, but there is no telling when equipment could have an issue. The program is well organized but can stray off course many days depending on what issues we have and how long they take to fix.

I receive support whenever I need it from my employer. If there is any training I need it is provided. If there is any additional training that is not required but I would like to attend I am encouraged to attend this as well, even if the training is off-site and hosted by another company.

I receive support from my training whenever I require it. I have scheduled school training sessions for about 6 weeks at a time, three times throughout my apprenticeship. Any additional support for training is great, as I have even been allowed to work with contractors to learn some skills that I could not directly pick up from GSK employees.

It has been very helpful, especially knowing some of the theory behind the practical work we are doing. Working with the engineers is a great way to learn the theoretical applications, and working with the electrician to solve the issues right after make much more sense. All of this stems from the schooling has given light theory and practical examples.

I play intramural sports in the gym after work multiple times a week. I enjoy playing floor hockey on Thursday's, as well as soccer throughout the summer, along with many people within my team. I enjoy working out at the gym and have taken classes with others within my team as well.

Yes

They care about training and are very safety conscious. They make sure to do everything the proper way and take no shortcuts. I have worked fro companies before where they say they believe in safety but do not show that in their processes. GSK is a company that takes these things seriously and will take any concern seriously.

Be confident and be well prepared. Be yourself and show your true values. The atmosphere at GSK is very true as to what they tell you in the interview process. It is a long process and it will test you on technical as well as interpersonal skills, so make sure you practice both.