Aerostructures Apprentice Review

For the first year, we study all aspects regarding our jobs in both an academic and physical terms. As well as getting hands on practise in the college workshop. Currently I shadow operators and learn the job, and processes involved in the manufacture of wings.

I have learnt a number of skills that relate to my job role. This involves the use of numerous machines and hand tools required when working on large components. On top of this we have learnt how to work on both metals and composite material.

I am thoroughly enjoying my programme, especially the second year in which we can get hands on experience in the factory and help with production. I very much enjoy learning the correct working methods in order to achieve the high quality standards expected at the company.

As expected in a manufacturing environment, the programme is very structured with clearly laid out expectations that must be achieved by certain dates.

We receive a lot of support from our employer, with all managers, team coordinators and operators being approachable and helpful with any questions you may have. They employ a culture in which they make sure you know that they welcome questions, and don’t want people to feel uncomfortable / nervous.

We receive a lot of training for the job in our first year, through the use of academic and physical learning in college. We are also sent on a number of day or week courses to learn more specific types of work we may encounter to ensure we are prepared.

We learn all aspects of the job, from marking out the work pieces through manufacture and finish of the components. This means I have confidence in myself to perform all job roles I encounter, while under the supervision of an operator.

Before covid there were a number of extra curricular activities that employees could be involved with. This ranged from working events as an Airbus representative, and showing people the job as well as helping with any questions.

Yes

They are an employer who take a great deal of interest in each individual, and invest time and money into giving people a good education to perform the job well in the future.

Maintain professionalism, as it is vital that in a potentially dangerous environment that you can be trusted. I’d also say to have faith in yourself as they will have faith in you.