Junior Systems Programmer Review

I have been given the role of Junior System Programmer. You normally have to work your way up to this role over the course of several years, so I have had my work cut out for me. My day to day tasks vary. Each day is different. I have my everyday tasks that I do and jobs that need doing on a monthly basis. I have to do online education, but the courses are good and help to me understand stuff I have been shown whilst shadowing one of my team members. Now that I have been working at IBM for 6 months, I have been given alot of responsibility to perform jobs and tasks on my own.

Everything I have learnt has been new to me. I have very minimal knowledge of computers and technology when I first started. I have been taught alot and it has been quite a challenge but I have enjoyed it. I have recently been on a course with other apprentices to learn about working in a project environment and how to improve my presentation skills. It was a very busy week but working in teams to get the work done was great.

I am so happy that I decided to apply for the Apprenticeship program at IBM. It has completely changed my life and I have learnt so much. I know this was the right step onto the career ladder. I enjoy coming to work everyday and solving problems that arise everyday. IBM is a great company to work for and it offers alot of benefits.

I feel very valued by IBM. I am constantly receiving positive feedback and made to feel part of the team.

When you first start at IBM on the Apprenticeship scheme, you are on a 2 week induction where you get to meet other apprentices. This is a great way to start building your network and make new friends. You learn all about the company and what your expectations are as an IBM employee. It's a fun 2 weeks and you have a presentation to give at the end too. I am always being provided with support from all members of my team. If I am struggling with something, everyone is very happy to help, no matter how busy they are. You are given a buddy aswell when you start, usually another apprentice who has been in the programme longer than yourself, to offer advice or answer any questions you may have about the programme or issues you may have. This is a great idea as you may not always feel comfortable going to your manager all the time if you have any concerns.

I regularly receive updates and information from various people about whats going on. There are also communities which people communicate with you through. I receive a good amount of support from them, but you mainly receive your support from IBM as you are based there on a daily basis.

I receive alot of support from all members of my team and my mentor. They are always willing to help me and teach me different things.

IBM has one of the highest paying apprenticeship schemes in the country. Your salary does rise during the apprenticeship. I live in London and with it being quite expensive I get by alright with the amount I get paid. Any trips you have to make for the company, you will be reimbursed for by IBM as long as it has been pre-approved.

There are lots of sports teams and groups which meet up on a regular basis that you can get involved with. On the IBM intranet you can join different communities and keep up to date with everything that is happening.

Yes

Who wouldn't want to start a great career and learn whilst getting paid? IBM is a fantastic place to work and the fact you don't even need a degree to work here is amazing. I was struggling to find the right career path for me. I have found it now. Another great thing about the Apprenticeship Programme at IBM, is that there are so many different jobs and areas to explore. You can move around during your 3 years until you find the job which suits you the best.

Make sure you take time and care over your initial application and CV template. This is your first chance to give IBM a good impression of yourself. At the assessment center, try not to be nervous. No one is trying to catch you out, they just want to see what your like and how well you work in a team and present yourself. Don't try to take over during the assessments. For the interview I would recommend practicing in front of a family member or friend, even if its just once. It will make you feel alot less nervous knowing that you have practiced. Last tip.....Be Yourself.