Aircraft Systems Apprentice Review

As an apprentice aircraft fitter I learn on the job how to carry out a variety of tasks relating to aircraft manufacture. This is preceded by a year in college where I developed my hand skills to a standard where I can be trusted to help full time fitters carry out their tasks

I have learnt a lot of hand skills which allow me to carry out my work safely and accurately. I have also learnt a lot about how aircraft operate and about areas such as health and safety, business and human factors. One of the best things about the apprenticeship is that you learn a variety of things, giving you the skills to progress in different areas of the business once you're out of your time

I enjoy it a lot, since every day I'm trying and learning something new. There's a lot of variety in the tasks you do and the academic courses you're enrolled on, which helps keep things fresh as you go through the apprenticeship. I'd recommend it for anyone who likes to expand their knowledge

The structure is extremely well organised. Your first year is spent in the college and gives you a basis of knowledge and confidence which makes working in the factory less daunting when you eventually start working there. From the second year onwards you're in the factory doing a qualification based on the tasks you do in work

I discovered that they were on the autism spectrum while an apprentice, and the support I've received has been excellent in regards to that. Additionally, when I first started the apprenticeship I worried a lot about having no hand skills, and the exemplary support I received from teachers and managers alike helped me to build and gain confidence in my abilities

I receive a lot of support from my training provider. Every single TTO and teacher I've had has been supportive and will always do their best to answer any questions I've had. It's an environment where you don't have to worry about asking "stupid" questions, they just want to help you achieve

The qualifications I've attained so far have greatly helped me carry out my work. The practical work in college has given me the hand skills to carry out my work correctly, while the academic qualifications and modules are mostly closely related to the work you do (e.g. health and safety, materials, human factors, etc)

There are in normal times. However, most of my time as an apprentice has been during the 2020 pandemic, meaning that social engagements have not been forthcoming due to social distancing measures. Due to this I'm not really in a position where I feel I can judge this topic fairly

Yes

You have ample opportunities for personal development, you learn a lot, and you finish off in an industry which is well paid and allows you to work worldwide. The apprenticeship is enjoyable and you meet people from all sorts of backgrounds, so it's one hundred percent worth your time.

Take all the opportunities the company offers you. Take it seriously and try to do your best. Don't keep problems bottled up, because there are people there who'll help you as best they can. Always aim to get things right first time and work hard. The rewards are definitely there