Burner/Fabricator Apprentice Review

My role is Burner/Fabricator. So far this involves doing welding practise, small fabrication works and thermal cutting activities coupled with all aspects of theory alongside them. Welding practise consists of different positions and types of welding, such as MIG/MAG and MMA. Fabrication consists of using drawings to extract information to create pieces. Thermal cutting is normally coupled with fabrication as certain aspects of the fabrication job require that the metal be cut by thermal means.

I have developed an abundance of skills since starting. I have become a semi competent welder in a short time. I am comfortable with fabrication processes and feel very comfortable with thermal cutting activities. I have developed my problem solving skills and practical hand skills. Team building has also been a large part of the experience.

I enjoy the program very much. Having come from a job where I was very unhappy, I now look forward to every day of my working life. BAE have given me great work satisfaction and this spills into my own personal life making me feel better in general about life.

There are some elements within the program that have lacked structure and poise. At the very beginning and also during the transitional 12 week review periods there seems to be an issue with the organisation and class structure during the program. This is one of the few areas that the program really needs to improve.

There is a seemingly endless support network within the workplace and it is reassuring to see. I can ask my superiors and managers any questions and they always happily answer my questions to the best of their ability. I most often get positive feedback regarding the support I require when I do need it.

Another area where there could be a slight area of improvement. Certain trainers go far and beyond to help you get better and some not so much. There is also the matter of them maybe not having as much time to give as much one to one as they would maybe like, or as you would maybe like. Anytime I receive one to one training my practical work improves leaps and bounds.

My program is well designed to provide me with the specific training that is required to guide me towards being effective at my role

Not that I am aware of but I am sure there are some.

Yes

A great company to work for with friendly and approachable management, a great work environment and a great place to learn and grow.

Learn about BAE Principles and about what they work on in general, ie, type 26 and submarines etc.