Technology Analyst Review

As a test analyst, I help manage the test life cycle of the project. This means working on a regression automation suite, creating weekly test status updates, liaising with senior stakeholders to identify and working to close defects. Some days, much of it is spent learning, whether this is new software or expanding knowledge in areas such as cloud deployment (AWS, GCP, Azure) or automation. While simultaneously working on college work - assignments, work-based projects, reflective statements.

I have joined Deloitte, rolling off from another apprenticeship at another firm. So in this case, my learning may not be as substantial compared to other apprentices, however, I have still gained a wide range of knowledge in new areas in my 6 months. This includes web automation using both Java and Python, BDD practices as well as how expanding my knowledge in the DevOps space - how to implement continuous deployment using technology such as Jenkins and Docker to containerize instances, then using platforms such as AWS EC2 Instances to run them virtually on the cloud.

My current area does not align to where I would like to be in terms of business area - however, once I have achieved my degree I believe I will be given the flexibility to move. I am currently in the QA/ Testing practice however I would like to be in an Infrastructure PM type of role. In that regard, skills learned in the QA practice can be transferred into a PM role such as; attention to detail, stakeholder management, being able to articulate issues in a simple manor.

Fairly well; however due to the organization's size, we are not offered the opportunity of rotations e.g. 6 months in BA, 6 months as a developer, 6 months in Cybersecurity (this was offered at my old firm). Instead, we are locked into a role from the get-go, with it being sometime an uphill battle to move if the individual does not enjoy said role/business area.

Deloitte offers an almost unlimited amount of opportunities such as 101 classes spanning across all areas. Self-learning is encouraged - with all apprentices given £100 to spend on Udemy courses. Regarding support, the structures they have in place give each apprentice two individuals in which they can contact, a Buddy and a Lead. The buddy is an informal helper, they can help guide or assist on any issues the apprentice may be facing - Buddy's are mostly former apprentices. A lead is the apprentice representative, this individual will represent the apprentice on any quarterly/ annual reviews - this means monthly catch-ups are required to track progress. In addition, the culture is very supportive, if you have any questions, there's an abundence of relevant slack channels in which you can ask for help.

The current college/work rotation is 7 weeks work, 1-week college. However, the company appreciates that our college work will in some instances take priority. In this regard, additional study leave can be taken, project managers are very supportive in ensuring that we meet our college requirements and ultimately achieve our degree. Our training provider Ada college has had some teething issues as a new teaching institution. They have very good connections in terms of providing us with great lecturers. However, the overall organization of the college is fairly low - much of the time, we do not know when to expect our results, assignment specifications are vague. They are improving over time however, our cohort so happens to be their 2nd cohort (20 apprentices). They are now on their 8th (90 apprentices), with respect to this, I believe they are improving.

In many instances, I have learned while on the job to then run into the same content at the college/ training provider. It has rarely been the other way round. One aspect that may not be appreciated is the team projects, which has helped us work together in diverse teams - this has prepared us with working with a range of individuals and being able to collaborate effectively.

There are Lots - at Deloitte, there is a club for almost everything. If you have a hobby, there's likely a club associated, all you have to do is ask. This is great for new joiners as they can easily expand their network and meet new people across the firm.

Yes

The firm offers a wide range of opportunities, with even more opportunities for growth once the apprenticeship has ended. Given the size of the firm, you will have to chance to do what you enjoy and go places you would have not gone otherwise. With this considered, there are not many companies that could offer what Deloitte does.

Do some research as to what area/ business sector you would like to join - what are the technologies involved, who are the people involved - what is it that they have achieved? Understand what it is you would like to learn and go from there - if you show initiative, Deloitte will lead the way.