Systems engineer Review

I am a systems engineer and in my most recent placement I was doing software testing. This was done in MATLAB and mostly involved unit testing but also involved some bash and stress testing. During term time, I spend one day a week at University working towards a degree in software engineering.

I have learnt how to use MATLAB I have learnt how to use simulink I have developed my report writing skills I have learnt how to communicate in a professional environment I have learnt some techniques on how to improve my habits I have developed my knowledge of using Microsoft Excel

I enjoy my job. The company promotes a social lifestyle and is quite relaxed meaning that I can get to know people that I work with easily and I get on well with them. My university course is not very well organised and I do not like it. Much of the problems have been to do with one of my lecturers who has been taken off the course recently so perhaps things will improve now.

As mentioned previously, my course isn't organised well which is quite frustrating. I think that lots of time has been wasted which is a shame but hopefully this is something that will be improved in future years.

I receive lots of support from my employer. I have regular catch-ups which mean I can tell them about problems that I've been having. Apprentices and graduates are also signed up for sessions with a company called gen healthy minds which are designed to help improve workplace habits and behaviours.

My Lecturers are always available to contact, the only problem is that they can take quite a while to respond meaning that I usually have to contact them in person during lectures which means communication isn't always the best. There are additional resources available to apprentices but they haven't been explained very well.

I would say that a third of what I do at university is relevant to my role at work. This third has helped me to improve in my role and will continue to do so. The other 2 thirds can often feel quite redundant and feel like filler content to me.

There are lots of social activities to get involved with, there is also a football team and induction events for new apprentices and graduates so that they can get to know each other better. As I am technically a student at the University of the West of England I can also join their societies

Yes

I like the work environment because I can easily socialise with others and don't feel much pressure but I can also listen to my music when I want to focus. The work hours are quite flexible which is something that I appreciate. The pay and bonuses are quite good for apprentices. Also the food at the canteen is quite cheap which is never a bad thing (96p for a filling tuna baguette)!

Think about if your friends/family would be ok with you working for a defence company as well as if you're ok with. If you're an apprentice or grad I would recommend looking for housing as soon as you accept the role, especially if you're based in Bristol as housing can be hard to find.