Level 6 Control Technician Apprentice Review

The role itself consists of learning and understanding maintenance practices used within the workplace. These include work on programmable logic controllers, GROB machinery, DURR washes, and ABB and KUKA robots, to name a few. The main tasks involves maintaining this equipment and machinery whilst also attending breakdowns and faults to ensure a running production facility.

Many new skills have been obtained from the apprenticeship, and these skills have also been further developed as the course has progressed. The main skills involved include: electrical testing, electrical installation, and mechanical proficiency. Alongside these, behavioural skills have also been developed to emphasise workplace professionalism and safety when conducting oneself.

The program is enjoyable due to the fact that there is so much to learn from so many individuals. The workplace offers a wide variety of equipment and machinery to explore. Furthermore, the individuals in the workplace all offer a different area of expertise that they are content to share their knowledge about.

The program structure has been well organised and coordinated. This is highlighted by the fact that, I have always been aware of my placement plan and my next area of development. This has further been cemented by my apprentice manager. They have fully facilitated all needs and ensured the apprentice program has been as smooth as possible.

My employer at work offers full accommodation to my requirements and needs for the apprenticeship. This has been instrumental in my development by offering all the support needed. By providing suitable placements with skilled individuals, the exposure to new equipment and machinery has provided a plethora of new skills and knowledge.

The training provider has been pivotal for ensuring a smooth qualification journey. This smooth journey has been evident in both the college environment and the university environment. This support has been demonstrated through in dialogue meetings and constant discussion. Furthermore, the support function has been always readily available to contact.

The theory is not necessarily as applicable as initially thought. The topics are very generalised whilst the content in the role are more specialised to the company standard. On the other hand, the practical aspects have a higher degree of likeness. Practical application is more relevant to the role performed than the theory side.

There are a variety of extra curricular activities to get involved in at work. The first is social gatherings at local venues that occur weekly. There are also sports teams that are created within the company network for an opportunity to meet new people and develop relationships outside of work.

Yes

This apprenticeship is a great opportunity for not just learning new knowledge, skills, and behaviours, but also for gaining practical experience to accommodate these. These two factors combined provide a great foundation to develop and expand upon in future roles. Furthermore, this apprenticeship is a gateway into a massive network where this is only the beginning.

The first bit of advice is to understand the role you are applying for and how it is applied in an industrial environment. The second bit of advice is to have a genuine interest and passion as this is a 4 year course. Finally, make sure you demonstrate a desire to learn and develop in the role.