IT Architect Review

I am an IT Architect, which basically means I look at the high level design of an IT solution - whether this be helping to create an overall solution from scratch (working out what technology is required, creating diagrams and documentation to explain the infrastructure, the business requirements this solution fulfils etc.) or working on a specific part of an existing solution (at the moment I am assisting in the investigation of some network issues). I work with other IBMers and clients all over the globe, I'm on the phone and in email contact with them both every day attending meetings and then spending the rest of my time completing actions based on the progress made.

From a previous role I have a deep level of skill in the Tivoli Storage Manager product, but from being an IT architect I have developed my skills in documenting a project, create diagrams to represent complex technical solutions, the 'soft' business skills like negotiation, client interaction and team working to resolve a problem, and I am also diving into the huge array of products that support a Cloud solution (SoftLayer environments, firewall/networking protocols, SFTP and other IBM specific cloud offerings).

I think the programme is great. I have had so many opportunities (last year I was invited to an 4 day event in Barcelona to assist some of the top level Sales executives actually run the event) and everyone I've worked with has made sure I have the support I need, taking time out of their own days in order to help me progress personally and professionally. I couldn't recommend the scheme enough.

My immediate team and managers have also made me feel valued, giving good feedback when it is due, and guiding me into areas or opportunities where I can progress my career. I am given responsibilities on a daily basis that will have significant impact on IBM operations, or client solutions and I am trusted to complete these tasks or to speak up if I need help (which is then promptly provided).

For me the programme has been mostly well organised. The formal business training the scheme offers has been on point and delivered in a timely manner. There are a couple of issues with regards to some goalposts being moved, and I had to work quite hard to transition into my new role but I do believe these are problems that are caused by the programme being relatively young and are being worked on by the programme management.

The training provider is largely a behind-the-scenes entity in IBM - your progression and development is driven by your role and your career aspirations. I am glad that the training provider gives us the framework to understand how we are progressing but otherwise I haven't had much contact with them.

Support in IBM is largely given when asked for - it is up to you to drive how much support you receive. For me, I think that a too heavy handed approach by the IBM training programme would not have helped, so I am thankful that the management understand that I will ask for help when it is needed (and I have received a tremendous amount of support when I have asked for it), but otherwise I am left to move things forward in my career.

I am aware that the salary is well above the average and I am thankful that I receive it (and that I am mostly guaranteed an increase in salary so long as the business does well). Unlike some of my friends in the Apprenticeship scheme, I have already moved out of my parents and bought my own flat so my situation is slightly different, but the package is sufficient for my needs at the moment.

There are many opportunities outside of work (I am currently looking into joining the football team in my base location), and there is a social club on campus that has a licensed bar and runs events for a minimal membership fee. The Apprenticeship community can also be quite a close knit one, so I am spending time with Apprentices outside of work which is good.

Yes

It's a really solid company to work for, with endless opportunities if you are ready to put the work in and ask for a challenge.

Don't be modest - you need to stand out from the crowd, especially in that first round of applying (around 4500 people applied for the 40 person intake I was a part of). Also, understand that IBM is a huge multi national corporation - you will need to work hard to get the most out of the scheme, but if you do, you really will see the rewards.