Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

I am currently in Design Services Constructive, producing 3d CAD models and 2d CAD drawings for any alterations or additions that are made to the warships. This involves being able to clearly and concisely portray information both in visual and written forms, and being able to use various computer aided design software.

I have learnt how to use Autodesk Inventor, which is a 3d CAD modelling software used to create models of components and ship compartments, as well as then producing 2d drawings from these models. I have also developed my AutoCAD (2d CAD software) skills, as I had used autoCad previously.

I have greatly enjoyed my programme, from the opportunity to obtain my HNC and HND at college to the large variety of work I have experienced in my various placements. It has given me a wide look at the company as a whole and how various different departments all work towards the same objectives from very different angles.

The programme is generally well organised. The scheme is broken down into 4 monthly placements and generally we were informed of where we would be placed next and when we would be moving over in plenty of time. Sometimes it was left a little bit late, or people were moved to placements who had more of a need for apprentices at the last minute.

BAE Systems is very supportive of employees. There is an integrated occupational health department who do annual health checks of employees to ensure their health or wellbeing is not being affected by their work. There is also the employee assistance program to offer help with mental health or other out of work difficulties.

CEMAST College where I received my qualifications were generally supportive with the work we had at college, with most of the instructors more than happy to help if there were any issues. Our NVQ assessor on site is very supportive with the NVQ, encouraging us to book meetings with him to go through NVQ work and to ensure we keep on top of it.

My HNC and HND have helped me perform better in my role as it has given me a bit more of a theoretical engineering knowledge from which to build my experience on. Specifically the strength of materials and mechanical principles modules at college have helped me in my design services constructive placement as I have more of an understanding of the structural calculations used.

As an apprentice here there are lots of opportunities to get involved in STEM work, supporting the company in things like open days, school visits, presentations and mock interviews with the aim of trying to inspire young people to follow STEM careers. There are occasionally professional networking events that are available, often used as a reward for particularly good work

Yes

I would recommend BAE Systems to a friend because although there are sometimes some frustrations with the bureaucracy of working in such a large company, it is generally well managed, and a rewarding place to work. There seems to be lots of room for upwards mobility or moving into a different area throughout your career.

If applying for a job or apprenticeship in the maritime sector, I would advise others to do some cursory research into warships and some of the systems utilised on board ships as this is likely to come up in the interview. Some research into the company would also help in the interview process.