Automation Engineering Apprentice Review

As an automation engineer I work closely with scientist in the lab to program new protocols for equipment such as Hamiltons, as well as the daily maintenance of the systems and support scientist if they have any problems. I also code new unique application for internal use in the company such as equipment monitoring tools.

Since the start of my apprenticeship I have learnt a new programming language, C# as well as how to manage and code new systems such as Hamilton, or 3D printers. I have also been taught how to work in a business environment gaining new skills in presenting, cheering meetings and time management

I look forward to work every day as the tasks I am given are rewarding. I have been given tasks which have made me visible to the larger company, that are at a good challenging level to my abilities, I am given all the tools I need to perform my tasks to the best of my abilities and with enjoyment.

My specific apprenticeship is new to the company and is unique yet has been structured very well and any suggestions I make for improvements are quickly acted on and the level of support I get daily is incredible. It is structured to teach me both skills such as coding for outside the lab, and lab skills for when handling system inside.

My employer gives me lots of support, as they have individuals to deal with apprentices on a daily basis to aid with any queries they may have. I also have a supportive manager who is always willing to answer any questions, and introduce me to other employees who are experts in that field.

Lecture weeks at Anglia Ruskin University are very well structure and are very informative. We also have Bi-weekly Skype lectures to help us with any question we may have while doing our assignments. Some lecturers are better then other and some take a while to reply but altogether they are very good.

The training provider has taught me from scratch how to code in c# and in 1 month was able to get me to a level in which I was able to start coding application for my company and as I learn new skills I am able to relay this into my application and make improvements.

There are quite a lot of extra-curricular actives threw both the company directly and an external company which we use, which organises discounted events for us to go with colleges such as ice skating. We are also given lots of opportunities to raise money for charity through the apprentice charity comity solely run by apprentices. As well as go help out at STEM events.

Yes

It is a great company to work for and the level of support is unmatched. They give you lots of responsibility's that match your level. They also teach you lots of necessary skills for working in a business environment, and by the end of the apprenticeship you will have all the experiencing you need to apply for a job.

The video questions may seem intimidating but don't let that put you off as they have made the application process both fun and interactive activities so they can see your abilities. Be yourself in the interview as they are very relaxed and just want to have a conversation to see your personalty and learn more about you.