Engineering Apprentice Review

My role is engineering apprentice, where I go on placements within different teams and am rotated around the business so that I can experience all of the different departments. What this involved on a day-to-day basis is taking on different roles under supervision from the experts within that team and gaining as much experience as possible.

The new skills that I have learnt include understanding how engineering teams work, and integrating myself within the teams and understanding the shop floor system. I have done placements in operations so I understand the viewpoint of the operator, but also I will be on placement in many other roles so I will be able to see their viewpoint. I have also developed my employability and communication skills throughout my apprenticeship.

I would say that I enjoy my programme and I very much enjoy the study side of my programme - my university course. In terms of work on-site, it is quite a lot sometimes constantly switching between teams, but this also is a good thing as it keeps me on my toes and does not allow me to get comfortable.

My programme is very well structured, as the placements allow for a variety of departments to be experienced, and for different skills to be gained. I get an overview of what different roles encompass and do, which betters my perspective of the company as a whole, and develops my career positively.

I receive lots of support from my employer for my wellbeing, which I really appreciate. It is a very good place to work, and I am never overburdened. My employer is very understanding of personal circumstances and tries to accomodate where possible, even offering support for various circumstances if needed.

I receive adequate support from my training provider when it comes to my studies, as they ensure that all of my work is up to date. In terms of my assignments, my lecturers are very supportive and ensure that my work is sound. I think there is room for improvement in some areas, but I will not complain as it is a good uni overall.

My qualification which I am gaining through my training provider helps me to perform better in my role as it gives me an understanding of the technicals which are going on - it builds the fundamentals of engineering, as well as giving me the chance to learn key engineering software.

There are many opportunities to get involved in extra curricular activities at my work place. Examples include sports events, networking events as well as charity events. I really appreciate this and really think that this is positive for employees, as it brings a good work-life balance and brings a social aspect to working life.

Yes

MBDA is genuinely a very good place to work. I am always given support by my employer and I am never overburdened or stressed. I have a very healthy work-life balance and I value this a lot. My employer encourages my career development and provides training which is important to me, and will help me progress in my career.

My tips would be to ensure that whichever role you are applying to, you must be passionate as this passion is what MBDA is looking for. MBDA has 5 core values, which are core to the business and also values which they are looking for in employees, so applicants should try to give examples where they have showcased these qualities.