Apprentice advanced air technician Review

In my role I have to attend a college course in house and learned about applied engineering related to the company. For the other days of the week I am required to go on section and complete practical and applied work followed by a write up which is used as evidence to support my work.

I have learnt a lot more computer skills in the form of being able to use equations in word and also have been able to increase my design skills on a computer. I have also been able to learn some practical skills such as soldering and carbon fibre lay up which i had never done before.

I do enjoy my program as there are many benefits to the company and the are very employee focused so i really do feel looked after. We do longer hours during the week for 4 days which allows us to have a 3 day weekend which in my opinion is better and i am a fan of it.

The structure of my program supplied by the company i work for is good as the transitions between the sections are very easy and enough time is planned into each section to ensure you have enough time to complete any work required. There is one section that is only a week as it is only a small topic but i feel it would need another week to ensure all work can be completed to a high standard.

A lot of support can be acquired from our staff members who we call skills coaches and you can also go to your line managers for any support or to ask any questions you may have. There are also mental health first aiders there if you need to speak to them about anything related to that.

We do receive a good amount of support as the training providers are always open to answer any questions you may have about the course you are studying and the also come round and assist you especially in tutor time if you request it. There are also support sheets and PowerPoints that can be accessed.

I believe that it will help me in my role as it gives me a better understanding of engineering and topics related to the sections that i work on. I also believe that it helps me work to a better standard as i understand why things are done in a certain way.

There are ways you can do extra curricular activities but they are not really promoted in the first year as they prefer you to ensure you concentrate on doing well and getting used to life at BAE. However, in the second year onwards you can apply to do many things, one of those being a STEM ambassador.

Yes

I would recommend BAE systems to a friend because it is a good company to work for and it is a very positive working environment. You will feel safe and also feel cared for within the company. They are really focused on safety in the workplace so you can ensure that you will be safe within the workplace.

I would recommend that you get your head down from the start and crack on with the work so you don't fall behind. I would also encourage you to ask someone if you ever get stuck on anything so you don't fall behind also. Also make sure you come to work with a sensible mindset and remain like that for the whole time you are wearing that uniform.