Product Planner Review

I have recently moved to the product planning team following a business restructure, previously I was involved in production engineering and some of that work is still ongoing where I am managing equipment install and commissioning projects. Once my move to product planning is complete I expect to work on a global scale looking at general product manufacture and possible improvements for both engineering and manufacturing processes that will offer a benefit such as cost saving, better quality, less waste, or reduction in production time.

I started working for Cummins in 2014 as a level 3 apprenticeship and then also completed a HNC before starting my degree apprenticeship. Over my time at Cummins I have developed a wide range of skills in communication, project management, and time management and also have gained external qualifications in IPAF, Contrator management and risk assessment, Confined space entry and management, Project management, and fork lift licences.

I enjoy the projects I have been involved in at work and the knowledge I have gained over my time and courses that allow me to feel my knowledge is required in the workplace. The company culture is very good and is very supportive of training and any travel required for it.

My degree apprenticeship is structured by Siemens and is well structured with supporting courses planned over the 3-4 years. I have attended the Siemens head office in Manchester already for a variety of courses and have future courses planned in this year. The studying of the HND qualification at Loughborough College is not as well organised but I am still making good progress due to an early start.

My employer is very supportive when required and this comes in the form of my manager. They are always willing to facilitate any training and fund any travel costs that may occur due to the training. I have recently been allocated a professional mentor who will meet with me at various intervals to keep track of my process and offer advice on my career development.

Siemens offer very good support both at college and at work and keep on top of any activities at college. Emma from Siemens arranges regular review meetings both at college and my workplace to ensure progress is consistent. We keep in touch over email and also over the onefile portfolio system so she is always reachable.

Although my qualifications do still support my role, the amount compared to my initial level 3 and 4 qualifications is less. This is because a lot of the units are based around researching and are less technical and related to my industry of work. The external qualification and training with Siemens is far more useful as it is something I can use everyday at work.

At Christmas and various other intervals our workplace departments tend to go out in the local community for meals and drinks. There is a range of extra-curricular activities occurring such as sports events and classes at the workplace but I rarely attend them as I already carry these out outside of work.

Yes

Because it is a very facilitating company for development and training and offers a good wage. There are also capabilities to travel globally due to the size of the company and there is a wide range of roles available. The community is very friendly and has a wide range of multi-cultured employees all capable of a safe working environment.

When applying for Cummins it is important you are approachable and friendly with a basic engineering background as minimal. Your communication skills need to be good with the ability to be able to present as this is likely one of the tasks you will complete during on boarding. I went through a range of assessments and interviews before being offered my role at Cummins.