ETP3 Review

'On-job' training includes developing gas network strategies using offline software to determine and improve the capability of the gas transmission system. Responsibility for individual projects and ensuring their success. Also, regularly attend two week blocks of university in which we study one module intensively followed by coursework and/or exams. Occasionally attend the training centre for professional development and technical course. We also now have online courses too.

I have attended a range of professional development and technical courses and in the process of gaining qualifications, including: Foundation Degree in Engineering Nebosh National General Certificate SHEA Gas Training First Aid Training Project Management Authorised Gas Tester Training Mental Health Training Presentation Skills Team Building and Personal Development Residential Course Basic Principles of Electrical Engineering That is just a small example of the training I have received. As well as formal training, my interpersonal skills, presentation skills and overall confidence has greatly improved since starting National Grid. I have also improved my technical report writing, use of Excel and learnt from scratch using specialist simulation software.

The ETP scheme has exceeded my expectations, the amount invested in me is huge and that shows that the company really care about wanting you to succeed and develop post-scheme. The Academy has adapted well to the challenges of COVID-19 and as a result I feel I have not missed out on any opportunities. Away from training, work culture encourages a good work/life balance but also encourages a good level of work-load pressure whilst allowing me the confidence to speak up if things get too busy. I enjoy my job.

The programme from September 2019-March 2020 was overall structured well but had some flaws which understandably sometimes cannot be avoided. For example, the induction to our end-post workplaces could have been more formal and structured and sometimes having one week in the office was not enough to get stuck in with work. In March 2020, all our university went online which was handled very well by Aston University and all training at Eakring was cancelled. Training at Eakring began again around August 2020 but for ETPs, training mainly started again in March/April 2021. The training scheduled along with work and university deadlines has created an increased amount of pressure but as with anything with the pandemic, it cannot be helped. I cannot fault any of the training received and the effort shown my programme planners and coordinators to provide the best they can during the pandemic.

My managers are very supportive of me and allow me independence to create my own workload whilst pushing me to develop my skills. I have plenty of mentor-like figures who I can talk to for help and advice and they always make time. A problem I had that involved HR was solved within a day.

Training providers at the National Grid Academy are always very willing to help, answering questions during the day and giving contact details out at the end. Aston University generally provide good support but it varies between lecturers. Some lecturers answer queries very quick and are happy to help but with others it can take some time for a response at times and some prompting is needed.

Some of the theory learnt in university is useful for my day-to-day role, for example, understanding how gas compressors work. My report writing skills have improved as a result of university. The qualification will mainly help in working towards engineering chartership.

There is a wide range of networking and volunteering options. Before the pandemic there were also social nights organised for team building. During the pandemic, there have been some quiz nights and team building games over Teams. National Grid encourage everyone to volunteer in their local community or though the Grid for Good scheme, i.e. talking to disadvantaged school children.

Yes

You are being set-up for a long-term career in a rewarding sector through the development of net zero strategies and technologies. Good work/life balance, supportive management. As well as a having a good career with lots of possibilities, there are endless employee benefits such as a very good trainee salary and share save scheme which will allow me to buy a home much quicker than friends my age.

Gather any experience you have, no matter how irrelevant you may think it might be, it could be very useful in your interview/assessment. At the assessment centre be a team player but also make sure you stand out. At the assessment centre some of the most important parts are when you get there, breaks and particularly the lunch networking session. Treat the receptionist as you would the interviewer. Once you get the job and start the scheme, ensure you socialise after training and keep up the respect for everyone you encounter. The first few months are intense in terms of meeting people but they are the important first impressions and it does get easier!