Electronic Maintenance Apprentice Review

When a machine has an electrical issue on-site, it is my job to ensure it is up and running again as soon as possible. My job focuses on electrical faults rather than mechanical or process issues. This varies from fixing broken push buttons and resetting overloads to more complex tasks like 'failure to step onto the next step in cycle'.

At this stage in my apprenticeship, I have gotten the foundations of knowledge pinned down and while my skills still require development, they have definitely improved when compared to when I started. This has been a very challenging apprenticeship, but a rewarding one that leads into a fantastic job when things begin to click.

The programme has been very enjoyable due to the work itself and those I work with. Support is available whenever needed, whether this is from a clerical or practical standpoint. The culture around safety is incredibly polished and there is always a good atmosphere, with the staff being competent but also fun to work and interact with. I am enjoying the programme so far.

The programme takes place over four years, with the first year full time in tech college getting us to Level 3, and a day release after this to attain Level 4. We have reviews every four weeks with assessors to give feedback on how we feel, what we have learnt, and our progress with the course. I have support from many places, namely my own team, my assessor, and the training manager. I feel as though the programme is well organised; While day-to-day tasks are unpredictable, I know exactly what I am going to be doing regarding my apprenticeship.

Fortunately, I have not required too much support regarding my studies, but I know it is there if I ever need it. I can speak to my assessor, my training manager, or my team if I feel as though I need help. I have fantastic support from the maintenance team when attending to faults. Recently I have been sent out ahead to form my own ideas of what a fault could be, and I am feeling more independent as time progresses, but I have the reassurance that they will help if I hit a roadblock. They are more than happy to explain ideas, concepts, and methodologies to me.

Our training provider provides ample support for us to successfully complete the tasks we have been set. We are properly talked through concepts pertinent to our assignments, and instructors are happy to answer any questions we have. As much as assignment work and tests can be tedious in general, it is manageable thanks to the support from the training provider.

Parts of the qualification are generalist and apply to most aspects of the workplace. These are good to know but I haven't applied this much. However, learning about topics such as 3 phase motors and drives, electrical fundamentals, and electronics have given me insight beyond what was expected of me by the team when I first started work on site. I have since consolidated many of these ideas with practical experience.

There is a community outreach programme that takes place every year called Every Employee, Every Community (EEEC). This is a way for us to help better our community by going ot=ut and providing assistance to various people in the area, from helping in schools to building and delivering planters to care homes.

Yes

Cummins Turbo Technologies is a company that has looked after me, with colleagues that are easy to get along with and a positive and healthy culture surrounding things like safety, mistakes, and wellbeing. Despite the pressures of the job, I have felt well supported by Cummins in my time here.

Firstly, be yourself. When you are comfortable you will be able to let the employer know who you are. Also, prepare some questions. If you make the interview a two-way conversation, you often set yourself apart as you are taking an interest in the employer and what they offer. The job is what you make of it - there are often several opportunities for development in this company. If you find yourself comfortable where you are, that's great, but if you want to aspire to something different, the opportunity will often become available at some point. In hindsight, I did not know how challenging my role would be, but I wouldn't let that put anyone off applying for this role if it appears in future. Things eventually start to click, and it is incredibly satisfying when you get the fix you were after, knowing that a machine or assembly line is running because of you.