Manufacturing Apprentice Review

My role within manufacturing is vast and varies day to day, with each activity/ project progressing and fluctuating in difficulty. Workloads vary significantly depending upon the influx of projects and other various on-going projects or activities that are occurring. The manufacturing department is broad and has various sub-groups within it. I primarily work within the projects team and 5s continuous improvements. I am given a good level of responsibility whilst being able to work alongside the skilled and professional engineers across the plant. Our department works cohesively with various other departments within Cummins such as maintenance, quality, facilities, health and safety and shop operations to ensure each process is streamlined.

Developed my knowledge and understanding of the true impact of Industry 4 and how various technologies are integrated to develop connectivity and automation within the workplace – enhancing productivity & production levels. My other pre-existing skills have been sharpened and focused my centrally around my function within the team however, it is important to remain flexible to approach tasks and problems with an open mind. Project process (planning, development - trial, 5s improvements, implementation - MCR & FCR, test runs etc)

Having been here for over a year now, I can truly say that I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Cummins and would recommend any apprenticeship to anyone who has a passion for engineering, maintenance, health and safety and quality control. No two days are the same and you very soon pick up and develop new skills and experiences from working with various departments across the company. A concern I have always had is dreading going into work, and I can genuinely say that it has never happened during my time here.

Structure was implemented to my schedule on the very first day to ensure I was developing a broad range of experiences and gaining new skills within the department. Being able to work and progress methodically has definitely helped develop my personal skills as well as my professional skills, as well as sharpening my pre-existing ones too; which will allow me to work effectively and efficiently.

Working within a department I receive a lot of support where needs be to ensure I keep on track with where I needs be. I take the approach of working on my projects and having them cross checked by the experienced professionals within the department to ensure that the work is completed to a high standard. Working outside of your own department is also guided by support as those within other areas are keen on supporting others within their work to better the company as a whole. Communication is key and voicing any concerns I have found to be important in ensuring my understanding of various processes.

Derwentside College has provided significant levels of training across various areas of the industry in both the theoretical and practical side of things. When you require assistance the staff are more than happy to provide you with the help and guidance you need to ensure your learning is developed and backed up with understanding. Regular meetings with the apprenticeship manager help to ensure you are keeping on-track with your work by highlighting areas that may need assistance etc.

The qualification gained through the provider has helped my greatly within my role as engineering principles and various other areas of the qualifications are directly related to the work that is carried out within the plant. Being able to understand the theoretic and practical side of things during the qualification will definitely help in the role.

Cummins offers a social/ fitness club which allows you to access the gym, football within your department and others to paly against other sides. Networking events are also often held to allow relationships to be developed across the company, whilst expanding each others knowledge. Team/ department meet ups often happen including things such as go-karting, axe throwing, meals, and other social events as part of team building exercises.

Yes

From my experience at Cummins and from talking to other apprentices, it can be said that everyone enjoys there work and looks forward to going in the next day. No two days are the same which is great for developing your knowledge and skills within an advancing industry. Cummins also provides fantastic opportunities for self development in training courses and further educational courses to allow yourself to develop within the role and become a more functioning unit within the team. You will make many friends here as well as people tend to be easy to get on with and like a laugh whist being able to remain professional.

My advice would be to research all the potential roles and apply for the ones that fits you best, as it is something you wont look back on. Cummins is a great place to learn and work and couldn't recommend it enough to those wanting to take the route learning and working.