Engineering Technician Apprentice Review

I am currently working in PLC programming. As part of the apprenticeship I have also worked with machinery, welding equipment, completed hand fitting and electrical system units. Occasionally have extra projects which involve producing equipment such as tooling or jigs for other areas on site. On Monday's I work on theory work such as assignments and presentations.

Before staring my apprenticeship I had little to no understanding of electrical systems, however after two 4 week long rotations in that area, I have massively developed my skills in that area and have good knowledge of electrical systems. I have also increased my maths skills and also have developed well as a person.

I had previously gone to college before getting my apprenticeship at BMW and I found myself struggling with motivation, however now I cannot wait to go to work because of the opportunities we have to build up our careers. It has surpassed my expectations and thoroughly enjoy myself at work.

The induction to the program is fantastic. As a group we go on a week long residential trip to learn the company values and get to know people we will be working with throughout the apprenticeship, as well as other apprentices from different BMW Group sites. There have been some issues along the way but as a whole it is a significantly better structured program than others, from speaking to school friends.

If you express an interest in learning something outside of the program structure, you will b supported in doing so. Personally I been allowed to learn how to use a 3D printer and have taken my machining to the level above expected simply from asking. Students who have struggled have received all the support they need.

We have a college day to work towards our first year Level 3 engineering qualification which is every Monday. This is where we are taught extended maths skills, materials, electronics, CAD, health and safety, mechanical principals. Our tutors are very supportive and we have a friendly relationship with all of them.

This area is currently not applicable as I am currently just in my first year of a four year qualification. However, the core skills we are learning in the workshop during the week will go a long way to help with our work out in the factory. The level 3 qualification acts as a building block for the degree I will be doing over the next few years.

We are actively encouraged to participate in charity events to help support the company's chosen charity for the year which is Alzheimer's society. There are also opportunities to do events such as the tough mudder or the mountain challenge which BMW are supporting some of my fellow students to participate in.

Yes

Due to the massive range of benefits, very competitive salary and support from both the college and BMW themselves. The fact that the training school is on site at Cowly is a huge benefit as we can be working on assignments one day and doing something for the plant the next.

It is definitely worth ensuring that your core maths skills are good, as well as a decent understanding of how mechanical systems work. This will put you in an excellent position as you will have good background knowledge that will allow you to progress quickly throughout the course. Aside form this, enthusiasm is key.