Mechanical Engineering Apprentice Review

My role as a mechanical engineering apprentice involves taking on 3-6 month placements in a wide variety of departments within the company. This involves working with many different teams expanding my network across the company. I assist my team with any work which comes through, this may be by shadowing another colleague because the work is too advanced or taking ownership if the work is of a suitable level.

I feel like I have improved some skills since starting the apprenticeship. one of these skills is organisation. Since daily activities include multiple projects and tasks going on along with daily meetings, this has been a challenge at times to balance on top of keeping up with my college work. I have aslo developed my confidence since being part of MBDA, this is by being put outside of my comfort zone more and more.

I really enjoy coming into work to carry out my jobs/tasks to the best of my ability. I have had days where I have stayed after core hours in order to help my department meet deadlines at last minute. I also enjoy my work enough to volunteer for events at weekends such as helping out at RAF Waddington friends and family day, or World Skills.

My apprenticeship structure is very well organised. I feel like I have a big say in what I would like to achieve from completing the scheme. There are times where i don't know where my next placement will be however other than this, the scheme is well structured and organised very well. I feel like the scheme is constantly improving year by year.

I receive adequate support from my employer. If its required I know that its there. I feel comfortable to ask my employer for support if this was either work or personal related. I also am aware of who to contact should i require support depending which aspect of the scheme/ personal issues it concerns.

From our training provider I receive adequate support. I am confident that I know what I have to complete in order to complete my NVQ. If I needed help I am aware I can get a response in good time to help me out with my problems. In my case the structure provided by our training provider has been clear and concise.

Personally I don't feel like the training provided by our training provider necessarily helps me to perform better in my role, saying this, I also don't feel like other provider would either. I feel a lot of tasks are completed for the sake of ticking boxes. I may find this changes as i progress further into my NVQ.

there are more than plenty of extra curricular activites to get involved with at MBDA. We have a sports and social club which involves a wide variety of sports and trips to get involved with. Along with this club, as an apprentice we have man opportunities to go to different events to help out at, from carers and military events to events being held at parliament or skydiving for example!

Yes

Because of how positive my experience has been so far and how much it has improved many of my skills and confidence. I also feel appreciated as an apprentice and the work I complete is valued highly. I feel our facilities are very good and we are well looked after as well as other colleagues being very approachable.

I would advise others who are applying to MBDA that they are making a good decision to join such as great company. I would also tell them that there are many benefits available to employees. I would tip them to bring forward new ideas and encourage them to use there initiative in everyday tasks.