DevOps Apprentice Review

I applied for the DevOps engineer apprenticeship position. DevOps is the union of people, processes, and technology to continually provide value to customers. Within my role I maintain data used throughout the financial services in the UK. My key responsibility is around the loading and maintenance of data to Experian’s core Bureau database. This data is used throughout the financial services in the UK. At the beginning of my apprenticeship, I was first taught how to work on multiple SOP’S (Standard Operating Procedures). SOP’S usually come in quite regularly and can be turned round quite quickly. This meant it was a great way for me to start adding value to Experian from an early stage.

Within DevOps there are many skills I have come across and have been able to improve on as shown below : - Data analytics. Data analytics is all about the ability to collect and organize data. I have been able to practice and display this as I was taught how to use SQL which is a domain specific language. Using SQL has allowed me to view data into a structure of meaningful information - Time Management Within my job I could be working on multiple projects at once. This means it is important that I use time management skills to ensure I am completing each project efficiently. Currently I do this by setting priorities and goals throughout the day to help keep on track. - Programming Previous to joining Experian I had only practiced programming via a programming language called python. However, since joining Experian I have been mainly focused on learning COBOL and JCL. At the beginning of my apprenticeship, I started on completing online training with IBM courses. I found these courses very useful and would personally recommend them.

I am most excited about continuous progression within my work and being able to see that the work I develop makes a real difference. I look forward to being involved and collaborating within different projects which allow me to work alongside multiple great teams and innovative people practicing an agile mindset.

When I started at Experian I was presented a road map which my mentor had created. It was designed to bring me up to speed and be able to add value as quickly as I could, Assuring I was getting taught correctly. Starting at Experian was a little different for me due to working from home however I believe Experian tackled this well.

Since the begining of my apprenticeship i have noticed that the support has been very good. We have had regular meetings where we can speak about current progress and things to work on. They have provided/ supported me with equipment to work from home and have helped out where necessary.

I am currently completing my apprenticeship with QA. QA provide us with an online portal which gives us access to heaps of resources and materials I have a meeting with my training provider every four months which allows us to go over current progress. I can contact my training provider through an app and receive support on the day.

Through out my experiance so far, after completing my first course with my training provider I have found that I was able to use what I was taught within the workplace. Specifically working with an agile mindset. This allowed me to use Agile techniques within my last project at experian.

Experian offer a number of activites both social and sporting. I have personally got involved with extra working activities for example, I was involved with a team which helped prepare for the re-opening of our office after lockdown. This allowed me to communicate with people outside of my team and broaden my networking

Yes

For me Experian stood out amongst all other programs due to its endless opportunities and support. Experian was able to support me throughout the application process by sending me regular updates, interview tips and checking in with how my initial tests were going. This was one of many indicators assuring me that I was joining the correct company.

I would reccomend asking questions. There a lot of things to lear about Experian and some you may not quite understand at first. Asking questions when applying can show that you are eager to learn and progress from an early stage. Demmonstarte confidence, skills and passion and try to be yourself.