Food and Drink Maintenance Engineering Apprentice Review

Building up skills by carrying out planned maintenance and responding to breakdowns - each day is different as the requirements of the factory are constantly changing. Mechanical, electrical and automation jobs are carried out regularly.

I have learnt many new skills as I came in to my apprenticeship with limited experience in engineering. Since beginning, I have learnt how to weld and fabricate new replacement parts, as well as how to test and fault find electrically.

I enjoy the apprenticeship as working in the factory has taught me a great deal. There is a lot of college work that goes along side this apprenticeship which I try my best to balance with the on site learning.

The college blocks and on site learning are well structured and we are given a time map at the beginning of the apprenticeship with the unit completion dates on it. The company has adapted this well with regards to the pandemic, showing flexibility.

There is a lot of support across site for apprentices from management and from other technicians as they are happy to give you time to achieve the knowledge and skills needed for the apprenticeship.

We have blocks at college and are often given areas to focus on when we return to site. There is a lot of independent work to be done and this is often reviewed when attending college.

The qualification helps to cover the theory behind what we are doing on site and also provides a wider knowledge of the food and drink industry.

On site there are occasional events to get involved with, as well as networks through the teams platform.

Yes

The support offered by team members on site is brilliant and it is a good environment to learn quickly.

Anyone will help you if you show your interest and make sure to always be asking questions and getting involved as it is the best way to learn.