EDAS (Aerospace) Review

Electronics engineer, working on circuit development and Eurofighter Rig support. Involves the design, development and qualification of airworthy electronics to various NATO/Military Specifications. Rig support involves the maintenance and running of Hardware in the Loop Rigs for verifying mission data, testing subsystems and validating software updates. Attend college one day a week

Contrary to a simple degree programme at university the focus is not on the engineering theory and instead on the application, and correct engineering process. The difference between an engineer who can explain how a plane works and one who can design and build one is experience; which this apprenticeship provides plenty of, getting hands on with engineering tasks and helping move products through the engineering life cycle is the only way to become a well rounded engineer.

The programme is very enjoyable; My interest in the field of aerospace probably helps in this. working on cutting edge technology at the forefront of the defence industry provides challenges that are rarely encountered in other disciplines. However the overlap between the "softer" personal development (diversity and inclusion training ect) and engineering can be a bit contentious at times.

The EDAS programme is still fairly new (now 5 years old) meaning it is constantly developing with the changing environment of the business. There are certainly issues with it (such as not being allowed to change placements which are not relevant to desired exit roles) however the early careers team are very open to ideas and criticism and seem to implement changes fairly well.

The company provides lots of support if required such as the Employee assistance programme (EAP) and Medical services. Skills coaches and managers are approachable and friendly and open to chats. Sometimes the support can be almost smothering with constant reminders of help being there and a constant bombardment of "is everything okay" questions. This however is a personal opinion and I believe that the support is far more valuable to those who actually require it.

The college is very good at providing support, as the degree is tailored to suit Apprenticeship schemes the lecturers are all very open to questions both in and out of college hours. College days themselves are well structured. Managers within the business are also aware of apprentices studies and willing to make accommodations accordingly.

As previously mentioned, the degree is tailored to industry with modules that are more focused on engineering application rather than pure theory. this allows for direct application (sometimes the very next day) of theory on projects at the cutting edge of technology. it is often the case that the taught theory is behind current industry practice.

Networking is actively encouraged throughout the apprenticeship. One of the main extra-curricular activities is "stretch objectives" which are apprentice lead projects funded by the business. A stretch objective I am currently participating in is to develop a swarm of VTOL fixed wing UAVs with a variable payload capable of endurance flight and Swarm behaviour. Events such as Expos and conferences are actively advertised and funded by early careers to promote personal development.

Yes

Opportunities to work in a company that sees the full engineering lifecycle of such a advanced product (especially in the aerospace sector) are incredibly rare and rewarding. because of this I have recommended various apprenticeship/intern programmes to friends and family as I see them as a fantastic development opportunity.

The most important characteristics for an apprentice are adaptability, enthusiasm and a small measure of intelligence. Being willing and open to learning and wanting to seize every opportunity to improve yourself and the company will go a long way. When applying make sure to read around the companies history and current work and contracts to get a good overview of what is going on within the business.