Network Engineer Review

In my role I help monitor and diagnose issues in the network. I work as part of a team and on my own initiative, and also work with engineers in the field when they call in with work that needs to be actioned. This is essential and the work changes day by day.

I am always learning new skills with BT, and have been able to explore an area that was totally new to me. I am able to learn from my colleagues and from my training provider, and this gives me a fully rounded out experience and gives me the confidence to carry out my role.

I enjoy my programme immensely; I have met some great people whilst on this programme and would not change a single aspect of it. The learning is also accessible and I have been able to challenge myself whilst learning new things, and my confidence has only grown during this time.

My programme is moderately well organised, but I do find the University of Suffolk lacking in some areas. In terms of organisation though, we are all made aware in good time of anything we need to complete in order to progress through our apprenticeship. The structure is also accessible and easy to follow when carrying out learning from home.

I receive plenty of support from my employer. I am able to reach out to my manager, and other managers in the same business area if I am ever having any issues. I also have an assessor who I am able to contact for help and advice should I need it, and regular one to one meetings to ensure my wellbeing.

The University of Suffolk offer very little direct support to me and I do feel that that is an area that needs to be worked on. Since we are not full time students it sometimes feels that UoS are more eager for us to go over any issues with one another rather than the lecturers themselves, which is not ideal.

I feel that my qualification helps to enforce learning that we carry out during work hours, and I am able to become a more rounded member of the workforce because of this. It also helps me to understand new network issues when they arise, and lets me hit the ground running in new platforms.

There are numerous extra-curricular activities at my workplace, although there are fewer now that COVID-19 has prevented us from spending time together in enclosed spaces. I joined the Adastral Park Sailing Club, but we are unable to meet due to the current covid guidelines. I hope to resume my learning with this club when restrictions lift.

Yes

I would recommend BT to a friend because the work environment is very positive, and it is nice to work in a campus environment. The benefits are also good, and all employees are entitled to free broadband and discounted BT TV, which I make use of and enjoy using regularly.

I would suggest that people applying to BT do some research into the numerous areas that BT are active in in the telecommunications industry, and choose the area that is right for them when applying since this will shape your learning experience and your career trajectory. I would also say to just be yourself, since individuality at BT is encouraged and new ideas and ways of doings things are always welcomed.