Apprentice Technical Consultant Review

I am training to become a Technical Consultant with HPE. My role consists of working on a range of projects with our customers, providing IT solutions. My main role is working with cloud technologies such as Azure and AWS in order to help companies make a transition to the cloud.

At HPE I have developed some new skills such as working with servers and firewalls within a server room / data centre environment. This involves correctly installing, patching and configuring a range of cutting edge hardware. In my time at HPE I have developed many personal skills that are key for the working office environment including; networking, presentation skills and report writing.

HPE has made a lot of effort in making the programme as enjoyable as possible. Initially providing a welcoming induction period that allowed us to make friends and network with our apprenticeship colleagues. They also encourage the community aspect by providing team building trips, like our one to OutwardBound in 2019.

The apprentice programme at HPE runs parallel with the schedule of our training provider, QA. They run on a 10 week module with and assignment and exam at the end of each module, followed by a "break". This consistent schedule allows you to manage work work and university work equally.

Both HPE and QA provide regular catch ups with either your mentor (HPE) or Skills Coach (QA). The skills coach meetings that QA provide allow you to voice concerns about both your work life and your current module. The mentor programme from HPE is an informal meeting with your assigned mentor where you can discuss anything about your time at HPE.

Our training provider QA, is a distance/online learning system. This can come with some limitations, such as only being in a classroom four times a module (10 Weeks). But QA have an online portal where you can contact lectures for queries and such. QA do need some improvement when it comes to their support on other matters such as apprentice benefits and organisation.

The modules of our course are very well aligned to the work we are doing in office which not only helps solidify the knowledge by using it practically, but it also gives me good ground work in key areas such as networking that help me understand the real work involved in my role.

At HPE there are loads of opportunities for extra-curricular activities. In the last six months I have been offered sporting activities such as a 5-a-side league and free yoga sessions. In terms of social activities, there are First Thursdays which offer free pizza and drinks once a month. And not forgetting the corporate trip with OutwardBound for team building.

Yes

Hewlett Packard Enterprise has made every effort to make the programme as enjoyable and practical as possible. They provide training days and consider the wants and needs of apprentices when making decisions that regard them. There is an opportunity to voice opinions and concerns that feel like are actually being listened to.

When applying for a Technical Consultant position it is good to understand that the technical skills can be learned and improved. But it is the consultancy aspect that will set you apart from other more technical minded applicants. So confidence, clarity and a willingness to listen is key. Good luck !