Network Engineer Review

My role consists of configurating a deploying network infrastructure to support the Vodafone Mobile Network. This can range from supporting field engineers with tasks remotely to building the device configurations that will deploy services around the country to provide the Vodafone network. Typically working on routers and switches as well as with fiber optic cabling. The work is a mix of configuration work and admin tasks ensuring the network is accurately recorded. Sometimes troubleshooting is required, investigating why a connection is not working or a config fails.

During my apprenticeship I have learnt a wider and deeper understanding of networks as well as learning about mobile radio networks. I have found myself more comfortable working with new people, feeling confident taking calls from people in the field I do not know. In addition, my knowledge of enterprise network equipment has been expanded. I now have exposure to enterprise products which I did not know anything about or how they worked. Now I can apply changes to equipment and know what the outcomes are in the Vodafone network.

I enjoy my program at Vodafone a lot. It did take a bit of time to get settled into the right team where I wanted to be for my career but there is so many people you can talk to and get help from in the business. On my program its good because in the day I am doing a full time job in IT which I love but then when I am studying I can ask my team if there is an area I'm unfamiliar with I can learn a task that also helps my studies.

The structure on my program is clearly laid out with the studying tracked through a portal with QA and an app called BUD. It tells you all the modules you need to complete with deadlines to help you work to. It also gives you details of what you need to cover off for each task with notes. During onboarding at Vodafone you are given a call ahead of starting to get an intro from your new line manager. Upon starting you have a 2 week intro with skype calls talking with different people and existing apprentices in the business to get a better feel of what to expect and who you can reach out to for help should you need it.

In my current team I am provided with support whenever needed. We all collaborate on one big Microsoft Teams chat. Whenever anyone is struggling we ask for some assistance and someone always comes to the rescue. My line manager regularly messages me to see how I am getting on and the atmosphere is very relaxed and comfortable like being with friends. If there is any issues or things worrying you there is groups and contact people in each sector who will help you resolve and reach out through the business to what you need.

My training provider QA gives you access to cloud academy training materials through their portal which is not limited to just what you are studying but to multiple roles. When you complete classroom/online classes the tutors will answer any questions you have and give you materials and suggestions for YouTube videos and other sites to go to help you with the areas you are struggling with. I can always reach out to my tutor and ask for feedback to ensure I'm on track.

I think the qualification helps to support the work I do in my role. There is a lot of technical jargon in my role and many networking features that you may or may not come across. The gaps are shrunk by learning the theory. I have utilized my training on Cisco packet tracer to help me carry out configuration on network devices in my role, learning the commands and operation of devices. There is a split where you will find some areas more useful than others to your actual roles.

Vodafone prides themselves on supporting staff in and out of the workplace. There is a wide range of activities and events that you can participate in from meeting new people in the business, to charity events to work projects. It all depends what you are chasing but there is something for everyone. You regularly get notifications on social platforms internally of things happening some work related some not. There is currently a charity gaming event on just for fun or coffee mornings virtually to meet new people.

Yes

If you want to work for a Google type company Vodafone is for you.. Vodafone has so many opportunities, even if you don't know where you want to go at first you can always move around the business in the future. It is perfect if your trying to find your career as there is so many different work streams it allows you to explore different types of work. In addition to this you are provided all the kit you need to do your job straight away on day 1 without needing to jump through hoops. If you need support there is multiple channels to get what you need and if you want to learn something new they are happy to help you get to it. Its a very relaxed environment which makes you feel comfortable.

When applying to Vodafone for an apprenticeship be open to what role you are wanting to do. Because Vodafone is such a wide spread business you can end up working in a team that is not what you typically expect to be doing. It is best to ask and get clarity on as many things during interview/assessment days. Make sure you explain what you are wanting from the role. When I applied I was expecting to do the role of a typical network engineer. However, in Vodafone that job title is represented by a number of teams doing work from project management, to construction work to designing and building country wide networks not just an office network and equipment.