Network Engineer Review

Daily, we look at and manage the day-to-day operations of internal networks, along with the maintenance and uphold of business network solutions, which involves hardware maintenance, software management and working with customers in order to reach a solution and create a product/service which we can deliver to the customer.

I have learnt how to install server racks, routers, switches and various other enterprise server equipment. I have also learnt how to use software to configure these pieces of equipment, which has enabled me to work more closely with the team on projects and deliveries, helping me learn more about the field as a whole.

I really enjoy my programme. My team are excellent and are always willing to help and support me wherever/ whenever necessary. I have formed new friends within my apprentice cohort, and met many new people which I would otherwise never have done. Its not what you know, its who you know.

The structure of the apprentice program is excellent, ever since we joined the programme there has been continuous support from our apprentice leads and the youth committee. The college provider is less so, we have had frequent occasions where messages for help have been ignored, or Q&A sessions missed.

My team are always on hand ready to support me, whenever I need it. There are plenty of resources and people to speak to within the employer, which too are there if you ever need support with something, whether it be job related or degree related, the support is fantastic

Whilst we receive regular sessions with the training provider, the support has been poor. We have had numerous occasions where we have asked our tutors for help, but have had our messages ignored, along with select lectures not showing up to support sessions. This has been recently rectified, but we had to involve our senior leads to get this done

The sessions with the training provider have offered me a base-level knowledge of many different fields, which I have then been able to apply within my day-to-day role. By having this base-level, I have been able to learn more about these fields when I have had to deal with them in my role

As a team, we have been out for numerous meals which have helped me integrate more closely within the team. I have also been to various professional networking events, which has opened up many opportunities for myself, and have met many people within the company. We are hoping to experience more of these, as the world gets back to normal.

Yes

The support is fantastic. The programme offers you a unique opportunity to have 3 years experience in the workplace, along with gaining a degree from this. By the time you graduate, you will have years more experience and skills than everyone else who are just starting in the world of work

Don't be afraid to ask for support. Your line manager and team are there to help and support you throughout your time with the company. Don't be afraid to speak up, if something is bothering you or you have a complaint (not matter what its about), voice it.