Apprentice Engineer Review

Assisting engineers, foreman and managers with any tasks on site. Most commonly, surveying and setting out with engineers using an EDM and Dumpy Level. I am responsible for recording site observations, deliveries and collections, calibrating equipment and recording results, and taking daily water metre readings. On a daily basis I interact with most workers on site, ranging from tarmackers to council members, and less frequently the public when distributing information leaflets into the local area.

I have learnt how to set out and survey proficiently with the engineers, using relevant equipment. I have also learnt how to calibrate all the instruments to be fit for use. Collaborating with the local public, subcontractors, clients and other workers have also improved my communication skills. Multiple training courses have also been put on, both internally and externally in jus the 6 months I have been here, ranging from driving awareness, to engineering specific skills.

I greatly enjoy the apprenticeship programme, as it allows working to make a tangible difference and developing skills on real-world projects, concurrently with continuing academic education, which helps grow a completely separate skill set relevant to the work undertaken in company projects. I agree with company culture, and think it helps improve the group's performance and working experience for individuals, and I enjoy working as part of the site team who were welcoming when I first came, and have allowed quick learning for on-site and academic skills, and an enjoyable period.

I think the programme is well structured, allowing a good balance of work and academic study. Any training courses that would further improve relevant skills are always available, as well as assistance from colleagues. Workload is kept well organised on site, with everyone busy, doing tasks they enjoy and receiving assistance if they are struggling.

I have found support to be plentiful. If I require more time for university work nearer assessments, relevant allowances are made. If I'm struggling with a work task, assistance is provided; and if I need anything else, ways to receive this support have been outlined. Frequent PDR reviews are also helpful for keeping goals and methods of achieving them well outlined.

Time allowances are always made if I have large amounts of university work, and on the days were the assessments take place I am allowed to work from home. Training courses are put on for any other useful qualifications.

Having only started at university a couple of terms ago there is limited information I have accumulated to relate to the job, however one of the modules particularly has helped understand complexities of the current project, and it interesting to see some of the theory being used.

There are company events to mark special occasions e.g. Christmas, and events setup by and for the site team. Networking is maximised where ever possible, such as allowing members of the public to view our bridge demolition via a gallery.

Yes

The company provides many opportunities through support and extra-curricular courses and events to develop relevant skills as best you can and provide you with as many opportunities as possible, whilst making the company enjoyable to work for, listening to any feedback you have, and implementing it.

Get to know the companies value structure so you can comment on why you would fit in with the group. Be enthusiastic and confident in assessments and interviews. Be ready to take on every opportunity that is presented to you.