Toolmaker Review

by BMW Group

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.2/10

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

I am currently helping build a new die which involves making unique parts and fitting them to the casting to specific measurements. I improve on all my skills as well as learn new ones everyday including grinding, stoning and welding. I go to college one day a week to learn content for my HNC.

10/10

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

I have learned many new skills including how to MIG and TIG weld, use different forms of grinders and disc cutters as well as stoning techniques. I have also learnt how to diagnose problems and fix them using the appropriate procedure, along with other helpful toolmaking skills. I have also improved my general engineering knowledge.

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy coming into work and learning on the job as it gives me a good understanding for when I finish my apprenticeship and am not thrown in the dark. I have good support from my mentors/colleagues who help me with my work and make learning much easier and enjoyable.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

9/10

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

10/10

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

8/10

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

At college I learn a lot of information that would help in a general engineering environment although it is not specific to toolmaking. My qualification would help me advance my career in the future but not necessarily help me perform better in my role. It would be good if there were more toolmaking related topics in college, especially in the first year.

7/10

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.)

10/10

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

Yes

9b. Why?

Had I not been given the opportunity to take this apprenticeship I would either be stuck in uni with debt and no work experience or still contemplating which career I want to pursue. BMW Group has given me so many opportunities so far that have helped me figure out what I want to do and I know I will have a job as well as qualifications at the end of it.

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

Make sure you try your best to stand out by doing engineering based extra-curricular activities such as fixing up a car, making something from scratch or work experience. By already having some engineering skills you will have a massive benefit as work will be much easier to understand. If you want an apprenticeship that pays well, has good opportunities and qualifications then I definitely recommend applying.