Electrical Fitter Review

I am training to be an electrical fitter. Day to day this involves for the most part either practical skills sessions where we are taught general mechanical skills and trade specific skills such as wiring and soldering, the rest of the time we spend in a classroom being taught electrical theory and safety.

I have definitely developed many skills, my knowledge of electrical engineering was very limited prior to starting the apprenticeship, my knowledge of electrical components, their uses and how to fit them have massively increased to to the extent I can competently follow drawings and use the correct tools to safely and effectively rewire basic electrical systems. There was also a unit of general mechanical bench fitting at the beginning of the year where we were taught mechanical skills ranging from using hand tools and measuring equipment to using equipment like a pillar or pistol drill and a band saw.

I really enjoy the program, the instructors are very friendly and very obviously extremely knowledgeable and experienced in their specific areas so not only have I really enjoyed being taught the required information but also additional tricks of the trade and hearing about what it's like working as an electrical fitter. It's also really nice that while there is a lot of work to be done, the way the programme is set out there never is much pressure or stress.

It is very well structured to cover the required electrical content both knowledge and practical skills wise. They also fit in other required non-trade specific units and course that suitably sets me up for working on board the ships at the end of this year of the apprenticeship and there is a decent amount of time to catch up on work if behind.

There is a lot of support from BAE Systems, we are constantly reminded of who to talk to if I have any issues. We have done plenty of tests to suitable ascertain our starting skill levels so we get the right amount of support and if any more is needed we need only ask. Additonally, it's been made clear there is loads of support for safeguarding issues if I ever need it.

Starting off we did loads of tests to ascertain our skill level so we receive the correct amount support right off the mark. Also there are quarterly interviews done by instructors to find out and talk about my progress. During which I am constantly told if I need further support I just need to ask.

it teaches me a range of skills that are both trade and non-trade specific that will suitably set me up for working in my trade and suitably educating me to be able to complete a task on my own safely as well being able to find solutions to any problems I might face while working.

I haven't taken part personally but there are social reps who regularly organise events and there are multiple ways to network with people to organise sports sessions. I was also put on a outwards bounds trip that had the aim to improve teamwork and help develop bonds with other people in the business.

Yes

It is a very good and sought after apprenticeship to be a part of, the training is excellent, the pay is very good and it has fantastic job progression so after my apprenticeship unless BAE have a good reason not to give me one, I am guaranteed a job as a fully qualified tradesman which can then lead to team leader positions. Or it's very easy to go straight into further training.

I would say the application process can seem quite long and convoluted especially with all the security checks that have to be carried out to work on site but it is worth sticking with it because the company looks after you and ultimately is extremely worth it with job satisfaction and pay.