Assistant Technician Review

I typically spend my time performing the role of a design draftsman. This involves modelling pipework, cables, ductwork and equipment into a 3d model. Ultimately the end goal is to become an engineer and where possible I completed engineering tasks with suitable supervision by my pears.

Since the last time I rated my apprenticship; a new role has been created. The BIM Project Lead was created to accommodate the accelerated development of apprentices. The role allows apprentices to take on more responsibility in their day to day work and practice leading certain projects with high-level supervision.

I am happy with my program and think it is a great route for people looking to get an apprenticeship. I find I work with a lot of university grads who are quick to compliment the apprenticeship programme and share some mild jealousy.

The programme is newish, progression from college to university was unclear on the best path. This was because I was required to wait for CIBSE approval of the course before I could sign up. This resulted in me joining university late and having to catch up prior to exams and coursework submissions.

I receive regular support from both my managers and my colleagues. I have an appraisal once a year with an appraisal catchup mid-year. In addition to this I have a monthly catchup with my engineering mentor who helps with my transition from technician to engineer. Among the structured catchups, I also work in different teams across the company. Everyone I have spoken to is welcoming and always happy to help me achieve.

I often turn to some engineers in the office for guidance with lectures and specific design topics. Having multiple perspectives to ask really helps when something doesn't quite make sense the first time. My company provides me with time to work towards university deadlines and even allow for a study leave day before any exams.

The course is quite large and can be very fast-paced at times. In the past, I have struggled with meeting deadlines which can feel defeating and these deadlines are usually close between modules. I find it very helpful to have a smaller class that allows us to help guide each other through tricky areas.

Yes there are many of these that are regularly held in the office or online. Some recent ones that I can remember: Music Bingo Happy hour at Home I have attended a professional networking event provided externally. I was allowed a afternoon finish to attend the event.

Yes

Arup is a friendly welcoming place to work that strive for excellence in the work they produce and the staff they employ. They employ a number of incentives to gaining further qualifications and accreditations within the industry. The company produces interesting and rewarding work providing you with great experience in the crucial industry.

If you are applying to work at Arup starting with some background research into the company is always a good start and is something I did prior to interviews. At Arup there are a wide variety of roles and career paths available so research into these helps as there may be other opportunities within your desired office. Arup ran a workshop for the applicants to attend in this we worked through a number of tasks both in teams and individually. Assessors will be looking for ways you stand out and add value compared to other applicants. Keep in mind they may ask for examples from past experiences