Engineer Review

My role is to fix desktop PC's. I start the day with a target of ten desktops to fix, these can be software fixes, to complete rebuilds after a machine has been dropped down the stairs. I diagnose and repair the machine myself from start to finish. I am then responsible for packaging it up for return to the Customer.

I am learning new skills during my apprenticeship. Currently there is not much electronics knowledge required for my job, I am basically a parts fitter. however the course is teaching me how to diagnose and repair circuit boards. Some skills are transferrable to my role, however most will be useful for other roles in my workplace.

I enjoy the programme very much. I am a 36 year old that gets paid to go to college and learn new skills, there is no downside for this. The college are very good and have taken the time to let us settle in with the new surroundings and working practices.

Very well structured. We have a website we can go on to see how far along the course we have progressed, what assignments are due and when. The website also provides links to all the resources we require and includes small tests we can take in bite size chunks to make sure we are understanding what we learn.

My employer has been very supportive. First for choosing me for the programme and then allowing me to do it. I work 4 days on 4 off, so they have been very good in swapping my days off, etc when needed and have allowed me to do work during normal work time.

Lots of support. My tutor is very good at giving us the one to one help we require when learning, he also makes visits into the workplace to support us. He is very understanding when things go wrong and works with us not against us. The resources he has put together are a great help also, in which they allow us to learn away from the classroom.

I feel that the training will help me to help the company save money. For example if I fix a desktop with a faulty mainboard it is normally just a case of replacing the board. However once I have gained the necessary knowledge I will be able to repair the mainboard myself to save money spent on parts.

Yes. My workplace has a Sunday league football team, they also host large parties when we are at the start or finish of out most busy seasons. Each team within the site also have the ability to have team building opportunities such as barbecues and meals out. The company is very encouraging of this as it helps us build stronger teams and this helps us work much better.

Yes

The pay is excellent, I could not earn what I earn here anywhere else. The working environment is brilliant with 2 good canteens, a fully air conditioned laboratory in which to work. Management are good and work alongside the colleagues rather than against them. Both I and my father work here which speaks volumes.

Be positive, honest and give 100%. Mistakes and bad days can happen, we all know this and so does the company, but not trying in the first place will not help your cause, especially if you want to progress in the company. Hard working and enthusiasm are appreciated at Dixons Carphone.