Level 6 Control Engineering Apprentice Review

Now that I have started the second year of my apprenticeship, I have started doing placement rotations. In these I rotate around different sectors of the business typically remaining onsite in the primary technologies BIW, Paint Shop and Assembly. However, we have the opportunity to go to other sites in the UK as well as International Plants. In a day-to-day basis I am placed with the Maintenance Technicians carrying out reactive maintenance and preventive maintenance on the equipment. I have also had the opportunity to take part in projects on a local level which are typically aimed at improving the current work process or environment this occurs in any downtime between jobs. I also study my degree one day per week.

I have learned a wide variety of skills since beginning my apprenticeship. Primarily, I have developed my technical skills in the following areas. Pneumatics - I have gained expertise in the maintenance and repair of pneumatic systems used in the production line, including compressors, valves, actuators, and associated components. Electronics - I have learned how to troubleshoot and repair electronic systems, such as sensors and control circuits. PLC’s – I have learned how PLC’s are set up for production and how they are used to effectively control the production system. I have learnt how to programme and configure them as well as how to interpret complex systems to aid in maintenance tasks. Mechanical Components - I have gained knowledge of the mechanical components of the production line, including gears, bearings, motors, and other moving parts. I have started to learn how to maintain these components effectively.

thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship program. It has provided me with the opportunity to develop a diverse set of technical skills across various systems and equipment used in automotive manufacturing. The hands-on learning experience, combined with the support of experienced mentors, has been invaluable in preparing me for a successful career in this field.

My apprenticeship program is highly organised and structured. I believe that the strong organisation of the programme has contributed to my learning and development. The program follows a well-defined curriculum that systematically covers the core technical competencies required for an automotive manufacturing maintenance technician whislt still giving you time to expereicne all the sections of production in the business.

I receive a high level of support from my employer throughout my apprenticeship program. The company has made a strong commitment to investing in my professional development and providing me with the resources and guidance I need to succeed in my placement. My training advisor is always available for me to contact wether it be related to work or not.

The training provider for my apprenticeship program has supported me in working towards my qualifications. They have established a comprehensive and well-structured curriculum that is designed to ensure I acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to fulfil my job role effectively. They have already started to work on my EPA which is the final test at the end of my Apprenticeship.

The qualification I am working towards through my training provider has been incredibly valuable in equipping me with the knowledge and skills that I need to fulfil my job role effectively. I am effectively able to take topics from classroom and then directly apply what I have learned to my job.

There are a few extracurricular activities available to Apprentices. The primary ones are the Charity Champions and SharePoint. The Champions organise and carry out fundraising events and the SharePoint team maintain and improve the submission process of apprentice documentation. There is also the opportunity to take part in the Move Programme which is international exchange programme run by the BMW Group where apprentices have the opportunity to work in a different country for 8 weeks.

Yes

I would recommend working for the BMW Group to a friend as it is a company that truly wants to invest in its future talent. Continually funding their on-site training school to provide the best training possible and also giving there apprentices the opportunity to see different sectors of the production system.

Review the job description carefully and make sure that the job role that you are applying for is the correct one for you. I would personally ensure that I portray myself as hardworking and showcase the ability to not only work with others but integrate with them. Overall, I would suggest developing your character over working your hardest academically as it is not the most important aspect.