Structural Dynamics Engineer Review

My current role involves providing support to vibration assessment of the aircraft. This includes RAP testing, laboratory testing and qualification, flight data analysis, research / design for vibration isolation and general finite element analysis support using company approved software. I also get involved with design of spring mechanisms for vibration isolation.

I have learnt many skills and developed existing skills throughout the apprenticeship. Some new skills that I have developed include: 3D modelling, Finite Element Analysis, Mathematical Modelling, Data Analysis, Spreadsheets, Report writing. I have had access to aircraft familiarization courses, CATIA V5 training, HyperWorks training, Fleet management training. I have developed interpersonal skills through presenting to senior management and large audiences, hosting meetings both in-person and virtual, and project management.

The staff at Leonardo have been very welcoming and helpful, making it easy to transfer between different placements and join various teams. Everyone is approachable which makes working here a lot easier. The work has been challenging and valuable for development. The company culture has improved recently, where there is more of a focus on output than being "clocked-in" and on-site.

The induction process for the scheme was smooth and team building exercises were well structured. The majority of the scheme has been poorly organised where communication has been insufficient, college / uni details were left very last minute, and similarly with the EPA process. The NVQ was poorly managed and it felt there was not a lot of initial information provided.

My mentor was very supportive throughout the whole scheme and offered some great advice, they were approachable and dedicated to me achieving my goals. My training manager was approachable, but it felt there was no clear ownership over the scheme where it felt it was delegated to Yeovil College to manage. The general attitude towards supporting me was good, where the company clearly wanted me to succeed, individual support was good.

The training providers were very supportive throughout the scheme and wanted their students to succeed, Yeovil College were invested in the Leonardo apprentices and attempted to make the course as enjoyable as possible - despite setbacks in staffing. Plymouth Uni were very supportive, providing additional tutor sessions and help when needed.

The HND Aeronautical Engineering had modules that were very much tailored to help me perform in my job role - CAD, Aerodynamics etc. The BEng was quite generic and an actual aerospace degree would've been more beneficial for my job role and understanding. A lot of time was spent on Composite units - something that I've rarely come across in my placements.

There are social activities organised by the Agusta Westland Apprentice Society, and there are institutions that host professional networking events regularly. It does become difficult to integrate fully into a team however, due to continuous 6 month rotations. There should be more focus on sports within the company. There are a lot of charity events and company events that you can gain exposure in.

Yes

There are great opportunities to develop initially as an engineer. Most work is valuable and beneficial and the people are very helpful. Being able to rotate around departments is very useful in gaining a wide range of skills and knowledge, whilst putting you out of your comfort zone to aid in continuous development.

I would advise anyone to be responsible for their own development and not rely on others to do so. I would recommend thoroughly researching the various roles to ensure you pick what is best for you. I would've like to have undergone an engineering course prior to joining, as I joined without any prior knowledge which made it particularly difficult.