Production Planning Degree Apprenticeship

You have been with Bentley for two years now! As an apprentice in Production Planning, what does your role involve, and what’s been the most exciting project you’ve worked on so far?

At Bentley, as a Degree Apprentice in Production Planning, I work extensively on enhancing paint planning processes to maintain efficiency and quality of the highest standards. A notable project was the implementation of new trolleys in the Paintshop, designed to improve part handling which increased efficiency and workplace ergonomics. These experiences have allowed me to work closely with suppliers and internal teams, enhancing my project management skills.

To balance work and studies, I engage in tripartite meetings with Warwick University and my manager, ensuring seamless integration of my academic learning with practical experience, supported by Bentley’s flexible approach to work-study balance.

Moving from Italy to join Bentley must have been a big decision! How did the apprenticeship program help you feel welcomed and supported as you settled in?

It wasn't as difficult as it may seem. I grew up in the so-called "Motor Valley" in Emilia Romagna in Northen Italy, where the brands Lamborghini, Ferrari, Pagani and Maserati are headquartered. These brands are visible to us on the local roads, they have museums and racing tracks which are open to the public and there is a Motor Valley Festival in Spring which offer different experiences to visitors. In Emilia Romagna, we live and breathe luxury cars! We admire the beauty, artwork and craftmanship that goes into making them. 

I always knew I wanted to work in the luxury car business as an apprentice and continue my learning. Bentley ticked every box. My team were very supportive and helpful giving me local knowledge and there were many events both as a team and as an apprentice that I was invited to join which helped me settle in quickly. I enjoy running, so participating in the Park Run in Crewe on a Saturday morning helped me meet local people outside of work and football on Wednesday evenings helped me meet with colleagues from other departments whom I probably would not get to meet otherwise. Now in my third year, I am now the President of the Bentley Karting Society which has allowed me to meet and socialise with other people outside of work in a fun and relaxed environment. 

How has your apprenticeship helped you develop both technical and personal skills, and how do you see these shaping your future career?

Throughout my apprenticeship, I've developed significant relationships within Bentley, enhancing both my technical skills and personal development.

Interacting with a diverse range of professionals has enriched my understanding of automotive manufacturing and improved my interpersonal skills, such as teamwork and communication. These connections and the skills I’ve gained are vital, setting a strong foundation for a future where I aspire to lead and innovate within the industry, using both my technical knowledge and professional network.

What’s one thing about Bentley’s apprenticeship program that surprised you or exceeded your expectations?

The level of trust and support Bentley has invested in me was unexpected and profoundly impactful. Being entrusted with significant projects early on, and the opportunity to undertake placements in various departments, has broadened my professional perspective and network.

This multifaceted exposure has not only accelerated my learning but also deepened my commitment and engagement with my role at Bentley. These experiences have surpassed my expectations, providing a solid foundation for my continuing career in the automotive sector.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone considering applying for a Bentley apprenticeship, especially if they’re moving from another country or city?

I would advise "Work Experience, Work Experience, Work Experience". Whatever form that comes in. Not to worry if you can't get experience with a car manufacturer, it isn't always possible, but there are also lots of free courses online which offer learning and certification at the end which will evidence your interest. 

Even work experience that is not in the car industry will give you transferable skills and something to put on your cv and talk about it the interview. You have to demonstrate that you are motivated and learning in your own time will illustrate this. I didn't have specific work experience in the car industry before applying, but I had other experience which was picked up on by my interviewers (my future bosses) and discussed.

If an Apprentice is moving to Crewe from within the UK, then Crewe is a friendly place to live with relatively cheap to rent compared with university towns. It is a small town, but notwithstanding its relatively small population, it has a big railway station with frequent connections to Wales, Manchester, Liverpool, London and Glasgow so evenings out and weekends away are not a big stretch. As apprentices, we regularly go out on an evening to Manchester or Liverpool after work to attend events and return in the evening. I am happy in living in Crewe; it isn't far from Wales where I can go hiking which I enjoy and is well connected to bigger cities for music, concerts, and theatre.

If an apprentice is moving to Crewe from abroad, I would advise them to get in touch with the Early Careers team who were fantastic to me before I arrived. They set up a WhatsApp group during the summer for students looking for accommodation so we had the chance to meet and learn about the new apprentices before the first day. Bentley is like a big family and will help in any way they can. If an apprentice does not have English as a first language (like me), I would advise to read up as much as you can in English on the academic side of things; all the apprentice learning is all delivered through English and the pace is fast and it can be tough to keep up so you have to be prepared for that. On the work side of things however, there is a very diverse workforce and many languages are spoken, so wherever you are from - you will be made to feel very welcome.