Combat Systems Degree Apprentice Review

Learning from and assisting whatever Engineering team I am imbedded within at the time. This can involve reviewing documents and technical drawings, raising and managing change, being on ship to ensure machining and installations are being done correctly and in accordance of manufacturing instructions. Currently based in the Alignment team which monitors the ships level and ensure correct positioning of installed equipment as well as conducts surveys such as flatness, level and post/pre welding.

Time management, organisation and presenting/reviewing are general skills I've been continuing to develop throughout my apprenticeship. In terms of specific skills, these relate to applications I use specifically to aid in my work. This includes tools such as CAD, Rhino, Foran, Data libraries/recording tools. Due to m current placement in Alignment/Dimensional control I have been trained and regularly use Theodolites, Laser Trackers, Gyroscopes and Global Navigational units.

From a work point of view I enjoy my programme. The work is interesting, constantly changing or evolving and there is a multitude of competent and experienced people that I benefit from interacting with. Due to the apprenticeship being a degree apprenticeship, it is important that the communication between employer and university is up to date and regular. This area could improve but overall I am satisfied.

There can be a lack of structure in programme. Placements are allocated with short notice and decisions on our future (Uni subjects/work based projects and year-long placements) have been made with little consideration of personal preference. There are independent learning plans based on the current placement but no overarching standardised one.

Due to protected time for university and flexible working hours due to flexi time, I feel the employer is generally supportive.

Generally the university is helpful, and individual lecturers will be quite dynamic in their assistance and more than willing to support. However, generally the communication from the university can be poor. For example a lack of fore-notice of the general schedule or lack of understanding of our time constraints.

Whilst their is some pull through and applicability in our course to our specific roles, on a whole there is little applicability. This is likely due to our role being very specified type of engineering (Combat systems/Shipbuilding)

There is an apprenticeship council, semi-regular team outings and several opportunities for Professional working events throughout the year.

Yes

Overall the work is enjoyable and due to the scale of Shipbuilding it is is a unique experience. The employer is supportive and understanding with elements such as flexi time and holiday. Colleagues as a whole are interesting, knowledgeable and experienced and there are opportunities to progress within the business.

In regards to Naval Ships in particular, my suggestion would be to familiarise yourself with shipbuilding terms and lingo and prepare an acronym list.