Engineer Technician Review

Currently I am in my second year of the apprenticeship which entails doing various 15 week block placements and learning different aspects of the business. My role at the end of my placements could be anything from design engineering, to systems testing. It all depends on what i find best suited.

I have learnt many new skills, in my 15months at BAE Systems i have developed skills on various software's, such as CAD. Developed a greater understanding on electrical and electronic components, for example developing alarm systems and general household electrics. And developed personal relationships and general growth as a person.

I love my programme! Compared to previous apprenticeships I have done this one is the best of the best. The company look after you and put you first, always offering additional support if required, and make you aware of any additional support. You are treated like a valued employee from day one.

Starting the programme through COVID had it's challenges but the company did an outstanding job tackling it. Laptops and services were provided so that everyone could be kept up to date and in the loop. Regular meetings of the cohort are scheduled to keep everyone informed of any upcoming changes or opportunities.

There is endless support within the programme. Regular mental health awareness talks are done, opportunities for extra curricular activities are available, peer on peer talks to help with the process, financial help, personal help, excellent pension scheme, share incentive scheme. This is a company that looks after their employees and thrives for them to be the best they can be.

With COVID there are again limitations on contact for support for working towards the qualifications. However regular progress meetings are done so that you can set personal targets to achieve and ensure that the work is getting done whilst proceeding through the apprenticeship. They are only one call away for any help required.

I think the qualification is very relevant to what's being done within the program, it expands on all expected behaviours and covers a large quantity of information required to complete the apprenticeship. As well as this relevant FE work is done to accompany the practical with the theory work.

Again, I have joined the program when peak COVID was around, therefore social activities were not to be done. But now that we are coming out of COVID more opportunities are coming forward and opportunities to develop ones network within the company. Events such as charity 5-a-side and other things.

Yes

BAE Systems is one of those company's that legitimately cares about their employees, it is an excellent place to work with endless opportunities. I have always wanted to work here and I am so pleased with the outcome and all the support given within the company and highly recommend it.

Make sure that you do research into the company and everything they do, it is more than making aircrafts. There are lots of areas within the company that do different aspects. You must be keen to learn and commit yourself to the scheme to get the best outcome for yourself, which is what the company wants.