Advanced Engineering Apprentice Review

My role as an apprentice is primarily to learn. Throughout my journey I will venture into at least 11 different departments for periods of 3-4 months, and in each of these departments I will become integrated as one of the team, learning to perform the same work as the other members of that team picking up engineering skills along the way. By working in the department in this way I can learn my trade and gain evidence towards by BTEC NVQ whilst performing work which the department is contracted to complete.

I reflected on this very question recently, and really began to appreciate the training with which I was being provided. During my time I have learned to utilise my engineering mind set to solve technical problems on a daily basis. my communications skills have soared, and I now feel comfortable talking to complete strangers (as I often do when promoting STEM and the apprenticeship at events) as well as working closely with the members of my department.

As with all forms of work there are dull moments, particularly when the backlog of work is low. In general however this programme has kept me engaged and I have always been faced with new and exciting problems. The work I am performing during my programme is very real. I have not been completing training jobs, I have been completing real jobs with a real impact and that is a very exciting prospect for someone just entering into their career.

The programme I am undertaking is very well planned and structured, and is supported by an excellent training and HR team. There have been changes to the apprenticeship recently due to the introduction of the new government apprenticeship framework, however the staff managed this brilliantly planning for the future and keep each and every apprentice engaged through the planning process to ensure we knew what to expect. My programme is structurally such that gathering criteria for my NVQ is manageable, allowing me to focus on my work and improving my skills.

BAE Systems and their staff teams such as Human Resources and Occupational Health have always been there for me when I have needed them. I moved away from home in order to take this apprenticeship and this has taken its toll on me both mentally and financially. My employer has systems in place to help people in my situation manage, and thankfully I am now in a much happier and secure place.

My training provider offers a structured programme designed to teach students the skills required to succeed in their qualifications. Tutors are always on hand to aid students who are struggling and answer questions, providing positive morale support. My training provider maintains contact with my employer to provide feedback on performance and both provide support where it is required.

The training provided to me through my training provider offers me an academic understanding of engineering and its related concepts. I am able to apply these to my daily work, improving my performance and allowing me to solve problems I would otherwise be unable to complete. Overall I believe my training provider teaches me the skills I require to fulfil technical roles, thereby allowing me to excel and opening doors for the future.

I am frequently involved in extra curricular activities during work. I attend many events promoting STEM careers and the apprenticeship to members of the public and also spend a lot of time in schools helping school students to understand the careers available to them and the benefit of STEM based subjects. I am involved with the Royal Aeronautical Society on site, and frequently engage in RAES events including the RAES Young professionals Conference and a tour of the East Yorkshire and Humber Search and Rescue hangar.

Yes

I would absolutely recommend an apprenticeship with BAE Systems to a friend. They offer world class training in a variety of subjects ranging from business, to software, to engineering. BAE is a world class company offering world class incentives and benefits to their employees including a competitive pension scheme, investment opportunities, and competitive pay. The training provided by BAE has provided me with the skills and mind-set to allow me to succeed in my career, with BAE or with any other company I should choose.

Do your research! If you turn up to a job interview and know nothing about the company you're applying for then you are unlikely to be hired. Undertake extra-curricular activities and put them on your CV. Cadets, scouts, work experience, DIY will all boost your CV by showing you of the skills and commitment required to perform well at BAE Systems. Take the plunge, and if you aren't accepted you can always re-apply next year.