Manufacturing Engineer Review

My apprenticeship involves workshop training for various aspects in the manufacturing of power systems for marine and aerospace. This includes electronics, assembly and machining operations such as turning and milling. Every 3 weeks, I am required to attend college where I am studying a degree in integrated engineering.

I have learnt new skills in every workshop section that I have completed so far. As well as being important for the job role I will be undertaking, sections such as Assembly and Electrical provide transferable skills that can be used in day to day life.

The workshop portion of the apprenticeship is organised and very enjoyable, however, the college aspect id very unorganised with bad teaching and therefore is very stressful and unejoyable.

I feel valued by Rolls-Royce as they have made it clear that I will have an important defined role in the business.

The workshop aspect of the apprenticeship is very organised, however the college aspect is very unorganised meaning that the course becomes very difficult at the end of the year with 5 assignments in 2 months to complete. The start of the course involved 7 assignments in 7 months.

We are given a lot of support by out apprenticeship development leaders and workshop instructors. They offer support in the form of experienced apprentices and extra time due to illness or if the workload becomes too much to handle at a given time.

Rolls-Royce provide support in the form of training courses that will aid our learning as well as ensure our safety in and out of working hours.

Since I live close to where my apprenticeship is based, the salary is able to meet my costs. However, I know that my colleagues often struggle with rent etc. due to the low pay in comparison with other apprenticeships of a similar nature.

Rolls-Royce provide a gym and have various other clubs that can be joined such as the rugby or tennis club. AGA is also promoted and gives us oppurtunities to take part in activities such as go karting or sky diving.

Yes

Quality of training as well as being given the oppurtunity to work for a world class company that will provide great oppurtunities and a wealth of relevant experience in engineering.

Be prepared to work hard, particularly in the higher education aspect of the apprenticeship where time management will be really important.