Gas Transmission Asset Management Apprentice Review

I am a first year gas transmission apprentice and my day to day role currently, is being based at the National Grid Training Centre in Eakring most of the time, West Chesire College and blocks on site. The first year I am mainly at the training centre to bring my practical and theoretical skills up to scratch, I also spend some time at West Chesire College studying a BTEC level 3 diploma in engineering.

I have learnt various new skills whilst being on my apprenticeship this includes pipe fitting skills such as creating copper rigs and pressure testing them, mechanical maintenance skills this included stripping down a gearbox and putting it back together. I also gained some basic bench skills learning how to use a variety of different tools creating various components. I've also gained knowledge theoretically learning about businees in engineering, mechanical principles, maths for engineers and design in engineering.

I thoroughly enjoy my apprenticeship as it provides me with a benchmark for the future helping me to require skills and knowledge to increase my potential for progression further on in my career.

I always feel valued at National Grid, everyone always makes an effort to make you feel welcome and part of the team. They also have good benefits and rewards which makes you feel motivated to come in to work everyday.

The programme is fairly organised, although there has been various time table changes which has caused confusion within my group. Also when at West Chesire College sometimes organisation has been poor.

I recieve excellent support from the training providers, as they are very well orgainised and competent within there roles. They provide neccessary support when needed and help you to get your tasks completed.

I also receive excellent support from my employer, as they always check to see how well you are doing and how you are getting on within the programme and if you have any issues. There is always great support from your mentors, line managers and programme managers.

The salary is very good for an apprenticeship, and offers much more than other apprenticeships out there.

There are various opportunites outside of work, including discounted gym memberships and money off towards shopping through the companys benefits scheme.

Yes

I would recommend National Grid to a friend as it is a really good company to work for and you gain alot of skills and knowledge whilst on the programme.

I would say that they need to have a keen interest in engineering and have a positive mental attitude. They would need to be open and honest and be able to work well in a team, I'd say it would be handy to have some hands on experience before applying as this can help you to secure a position and can really make a difference.