Electrical Detailed Designer Review

Within my role I am responsible for the design of electrical components within the ships that we build here. On a day to day basis I review cable schedules, create containment within a 3D CAD model, create engineering drawings such as schematics and route cables using our cable management software.

Over my 4 years within the business, I have developed many of my skills. My team-working and communication skills have benefited greatly. I am required to work closely with others in order to ensure that project deadlines are met. My IT skills have also been developed greatly. My training has made me much more competent in 3D modelling and working within spreadsheets.

I would say that I have enjoyed my programme very much. I have learned and developed countless new skills throughout my time within the business and these will ultimately help me in the future as I complete the programme. The people around me within the business are very helpful and this has only made my experience more enjoyable as I do not ever feel as if I am stuck without any help.

The programme is structured quite well in my opinion. In first year we are placed into a near-by college full time and put through our HNC and also an SVQ Level 2. In second and third year, apprentices are brought into the workplace to gain vital hands on experience whilst still studying part time at college for an HND and SVQ Level 3. Finally, in fourth year, apprentices are full time within the workplace to gain as much experience as possibly before they complete the apprenticeship.

Throughout my four years, I have received great support from my employer. My managers and other employees are always on hand and are willing to help you whenever you have a question or query, and you are encouraged to ask as many questions as you need, no question is a daft question.

When it comes to my training, I have always felt I received great support from both my employer and the college. In regards to my HNC/HND, the college was always on hand to help with any issues and reviews were held quarterly which I thought was of great benefit. My employer was also very helpful when it came to my on site qualifications (SVQ 2 and 3), I received the materials I required and if ever I had a query there was someone to provide some help.

My HNC and HND have helped me gain a better understanding of electrical engineering as a whole and have given me vital electrical and health and safety knowledge that I use everyday within my role. My SVQ has given me the hands on experience I need to exceed in my role, and provided me with the correct working procedures that I follow every day.

The business are always pushing apprentices to undertake extra curricular activities to enhance their learning. In first year, all apprentices are sent off to an Outward Bound. This encourages you to work within a team and communicate with your peers. It takes you out your comfort zone and hence helped developed some vital skills.

Yes

I would highly recommend BAE Systems to a friend. The apprenticeship has been very intuitive and has pushed me to develop my skills in an interactive and enjoyable manner. The way that the apprenticeship is laid out is very beneficial especially with the fact that your final year is spent entirely within the business. This has helped me gain a much better understanding of my job role and has better equipped me for completing my apprenticeship. The company always tries to push you to do your best and provides you with various different courses to enhance your learning.

One piece of advice I would give to others applying for a role within BAE systems would be to complete prior research on the company beforehand. A bit of prior knowledge gave me an idea of the job role I wanted to undertake as there are various different apprenticeship types that the company offers. One other piece of advice I would give is to be as proactive as possible during your apprenticeship. The apprenticeship is driven by you and although the company is more than willing to put you through extra courses, if you ask for it, you need to show some willingness.