Apprentice Designer Review

I carry out the design of electrical systems using a 3D model. This includes placement of electrical equipment, placement of cables/routing, cable types etc. I am also studying my electrical engineering HNC. I mostly work from a computer, however with some upcoming placements i may have the opportunity to go on the shop floor.

i Have developed my knowledge on engineering, the terms used and gained an understanding of various design procedures and processes. I have developed on my people skills and teamwork, as well as my organisation and time management. This helps me day in and day out when it comes to carrying out my job.

I enjoy the social aspect of where i work. There is a sense of community around everyone within the business. I like the fact its very flexible, and the business will let you carry out a placement in a certain area of the business depending on what you want to do/enjoy.

The business is fairly organised because we always have an idea of what is going to be done, what is needed and so on. However sometimes things aren't 100% clarified until just before whats being done. Therefore sometimes apprentices can be uncertain and have to chase up information before its to late.

Lots of support is provided. My example is a lot of my peers and I needed extra help with college, and so my employer found someone to give us extra tuition. They are also always asking us if we are okay and if we need someone to speak to, and there are many places where this can be found.

Currently there is a lack of support form my training provider (the college) when it comes to receiving my qualifications. However my place of employment are doing everything in there power to ensure this is improved. Many review are taking place and regular meeting are held to to and improve the situation.

My electrical engineering HNC helps understand the electrical side of my placement. I have improved my understanding of electrical circuits and how they work. However this will give me better aids in the future, because as of right now, i don't really need an understanding of this for my current placements. However, looking forward, this will come in handy as my knowledge of electrical circuits will need to be increased.

There's is a vast array of different extra curricular activities that BAE provide. For example apprentices can sign up to the national apprentice council. Also there are many presentations and activities that you can give to help people outside the business and in the community. Many social events such as networking events where you can talk to apprentices outside this locations, and talk to people form other sighs around the world.

Yes

For someone who may not know exactly what they want to do in life, BAE is a great place to come, as placements are very flexible and you can get a sense of many different job roles that the business offers. You can ask to have some time on a certain team if it sounds like something you want to do. Also it is a great place to work as there is a sense of community throughout the business.

Make sure you sell yourself well, and if you get in take pride in your work. BAE will train you well and if your deciding weather to go the traditional route through college and university, or through an apprenticeship, i was the same. However, the apprenticeship has taught me everything i wanted to study, but also getting work experience at the same time.