Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

by BMW Group

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am a degree apprentice within the Production planning department who looks after the planning of the production line as well as new product integration as well as structure planning and VPS integration. I do not however stay in this department for the entirety of the apprenticeship. I am able to travel to different departments to gain insight as to what they do as well as build vital communication bridges.

9/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Definitely, Especially Communication Skills. Meetings are held every day which i am involved in which help massively with communications confidence as well as networking. Working with the shop floor also helps gain a greater insight into the structure of the assembly line as well as communication skills with associates which are important when implementing new processes.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Very much so. The tasks that are undertaken are interesting and varied as well as there is always support there when needed. Everyone within the business is more than happy to help out with anything that needs doing. This is even more then what I expected from such a prestigious company.

9/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The apprenticeship structure consists of 1 day a week studying mechanical engineering at university. There is also regular 1-2-1 meeting with managers and university reviews to track progress/raise any issues that have occurred. There is also a strong push to travel round alternative departments to see what other departments do for the business as well as gaining communications networking.

9/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

Regular 1-2-1 meetings are held with my manager to track my progress as well as raising any issues that have occurred. There is always a strong message that managers/HR are always there to support me within my apprenticeship as well as colleagues and associates. Support is always there if i need it.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

Within my university studies we learn about many varied modules from mechanical failure analysis as well as system dynamics and workplace projects. Throughout these modules and projects, there is always support from my manager at work as well as lecturers and professors at the university and even from my fellow students.

9/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

Very much so. Recently, I have used Binomial distribution for example, to determine whether a jig is capable for a certain process or not.

9/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

None that i am a part of but they are available

7/10

9a. Would you recommend BMW Group to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Great business to work for with great progression routes up the hierarchy ladder as well as many opportunities within the business.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BMW Group?

Be yourself but express your best qualities. BMW group are very welcoming and friendly when applying for the apprenticeship