Software Engineer Review

As a software engineer, my role involves designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software systems and applications. On a day-to-day basis, I work closely with my team to understand project requirements, analyse technical specifications, write code, debug issues, and collaborate on solutions. I also stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices to ensure the software we develop is efficient, scalable, and meets the needs of our clients. Communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail are all essential aspects of my job as a software engineer.

I have constantly developed my skillset throughout the 4 years. Introducing skills such as TDD(Test Driven Development) Agile Methodologies such as SCRUM and Kanban and learning new languages such as Ada, C++, C#, Java, Java Script. I am constantly learning new toolsets and concepts to further develop my ability and skillset, widening the range of tasks I am able to complete.

I have enjoyed the program throughout, I have been continuously developed and progressed through departments and teams. I have had the opportunity to expand my desired skills and get involved in activities which interest me. Pursuing a passion and interest to work with teams as a manager, allowing me to develop these skills while being supported.

The program is generally well structured. There have however been some issues with the University on a regular basis. Outside of BAE's control. University have poorly supported the apprentices and have actively hindered us. The apprenticeship itself is well organised. The day to day work is managed by individual departments and teams.

From my employer directly, a good amount of support. My team are supportive, early careers are supportive. The university we are partnered with are poor and unsupportive. Early careers are able to support where they have authority and often do so. Individual teams aim to help their engineers grow and develop within their department as they directly benefit from doing so.

Very limited. UCLAN are non-supportive of Apprentice Students, they do not care for our additional workload and often disregard us and our requests. I have been disappointed by the response from UCLAN at almost every occasion. They have a complete disregard for their students. They simply do not care for their wellbeing.

The education I have received from BAE and from UCLAN are very different. The on the job learning has been exceptional. I have learnt a lot from managers and teams I have worked with. Introducing me to better ways of working, programming and developing. However, the training provider, UCLAN are outdated in their approach and often teach outdated and meaningless methods. With lecturers who have no industry experience, as to their own admission, lecturing us on how Software works in 'Industry' which they seemingly have never seen.

There are many events and activities to get involved in. However, with the workload, the time to get involved is limited. I have not been able to get involved in many activates due to the workload of University, a diploma and Working.

Yes

BAE Systems provide you with a once in a lifetime opportunity. The company is fantastic. Unfortunately, there is a poor pairing with UCLAN and it has let the company down continuously. However, the company allow us to walk away completely debt free with a degree in hand. An opportunity you cannot overlook.

Comprehend the workload and the effort required to succeed. Its not an easy ride and is not for the faint hearted. Its 4 years of tough effort. However, reaps a lifetime of reward and sets you up ahead of everyone around you, both financially and in experience. You will come out ahead of every one of your peer group.