Substation Electrical Engineer Apprentice Review

As an apprentice my main responsibilities are to stay on top of my college studies, complete on-job logbooks which contain a number of tasks related to maintaining substation equipment. I also am expected to complete training at the National Grid training center where I am given specific training on electrical equipment such as transformers and Over Head Lines. Overall my role is very varied which makes it exciting and interesting

Yes, there are many opportunities to learn new skills and improve existing ones. I complete online learning with modules tailored to National Grid and its company policies and values as well as maths and English learning to keep my skills up in this area. New skills such as using tools safely and climbing gear are also taught to a high standard. A certain amount of volunteering is also encouraged to help me learn more about the company and network with other professionals in the industry. While on site I am expected to join projects and encouraged to get stuck in with jobs as it is the best way to learn and see what engineers do on a day to day basis, such as laying cables, setting demarcation areas, maintaining equipment all under supervision.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme as there is so much to learn and different tasks to complete. It is hard work and can feel overwhelming sometimes with the amount of things that are expected of you but the time scale is very reasonable and the workload is certainly manageable. I am lucky I get on well with my team and the other apprentices in my group as we all look out for each other where we can.

While there have been some issues with a course being cancelled and a change in tutor at college, National Grid have done everything they can in order to provide the best quality of training. Every year is scheduled in advance so I know exactly where I need to be and when. I feel the programme is very well structured.

National Grid and all the apprentice staff and managers on site have made it very clear how they are there to support us and our wellbeing which covers all aspects such as mental and physical health, financial support and teaching support.

National Grid and Loughborough college have made it clear from the start that the sky is the limit. They encourage us to aim for all the distinction questions in our coursework and to go for the full degree and HND qualifications once the HNC has been reached. They have shown us how to apply for the higher levels and are there to further support us for our future career prospects and continued learning.

In electrical engineering it is essential to know and understand exactly how electricity behaves as safety is the number one priority at National Grid. Understanding and critically analysing circuits and equipment in the substation will improve the efficiency of circuits overall and it instills confidence to your team and other professionals that yo know exactly what you are talking about when managing large scale projects.

A certain amount of volunteering is also encouraged to help me learn more about the company and network with other professionals in the industry. National Grid support with this as well and are very accommodating when I am looking to attend events. There are endless opportunities to get involved with a wide range of events from teaching young students about engineering to cutting down brambles at nature reserves. You get to meet so many new people and it makes the role fun and exciting and feels more of a tight network when you meet colleagues from all over the industry and different departments. It would be even better if there were more sporting events from the company. The college provides lots of sporting events but it is difficult to attend these when only at college for 3 days a week. However, overall I thin 3 days at college works really well an splits the week up nicely.

Yes

I feel National Grid are very inclusive and and well on their way to becoming even more diverse than they already are. They are making the changes needed to have more women in high roles and are very much open to any suggestions for improvement. The job security feels very nice and releases this pressure, the salary is very good and makes me feel more in control of my finances, a lot of travel is expected so the provision of a company car is really important and again means there is one less expense to be worrying about. Overall National Grid are a really great company that I feel very welcomed and supported and can approach with any concerns I have. Not to mention they are leading the way to clean energy!

I would advise to really explore the role before applying as it will not only give you a better chance at interview but also will help you decide whether this is a role you really want to do. Teamwork skills are essential so really showcase that. At the end of the day just take the jump and run with it because National Grid will fully support you and the training you need is right here!