Controls Concepts and Capabilities Engineer Review

My role involves trying to find software and hardware solutions to controls and capabilities type problems on vehicles. On the day to day this means I have to attend meetings where problems and solutions are discussed and I have to be hands on with software and hardware to test and approve it.

I have developed personal skills such as confidence when speaking to groups, independence and project management. I have also developed technical skills, learning new software and techniques such as CAN cracking and using INCA to flash vehicle modules.

I have been thoroughly enjoying my programme so far. I've only been on it for just over 7 months but I've already had some brilliant experiences, meeting new people and attending company events. While the university side of the apprenticeship has been less interesting to me (although I had no illusions I would love the exams and studying going into the course), it has still been a good experience.

It's relatively well structured. There were some issues with communication between JLR and the university to begin with, specifically with some of the timetabling but those issues were quickly resolved. The tripartite meeting system has worked well to keep good contact between the university and the company. JLR have been extremely good in structuring my working week and got me settled in very quickly.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. My line manager has helped me learn the company and my role while also making sure he was there to help whenever I was stuck or unsure. We have regular 1:1s where we go over my progress and how I feel to ensure that I get any support if I need it.

I get good support from my training provider. My lecturers run support sessions before exams/coursework to try and answer any questions or worries we have. I think more could be done for supporting apprentices by the university, it does sometimes feel if you're stuck on a concept that has already been covered you have to just try and work it out yourself as the university have to get through so much content.

I think at the stage I'm at its hard for me to say. I've only fully completed three modules so far and still have 3 years of learning to go. I do think my qualification will assist me in my role, the two software modules I've done have helped me with technical skills while the business module has given me a better understanding of how companies work and how I can efficiently complete projects. I imagine these sort of benefits will only continue.

There are loads. There are reoccurring events such as badminton, football tournaments and hikes if you're interested in getting outdoors. There are also one off events such as Lunch and Learns where you get to learn about something within the company or something that affects lots of people (e.g. LGBT support, disability awareness) and network with people. Teams also hold their own socials such as meals and nights out which are really fun to attend.

Yes

The work atmosphere at JLR has been great, I settled in really quickly, got to know people within my department easily and have been supported where I've needed it. The work I've been given has been difficult enough while also interesting and I can actually see the benefits I'm having on projects. I've just really enjoyed the last 7 months working here and think if somebody was interested in engineering then JLR is a brilliant company to aspire for.

I'd advise they get as much work experience and extra-curricular experiences as possible to fill out their CV and so they can develop as a person. Getting the entry grades is obviously important but during my application there was much more focus on who I was as a person and how I could help JLR by working for them. As cliche as it is, just sell yourself and be honest.