Aircraft Engineer Review

Trainee Aircraft Engineer carrying out Line and Base Maintenace. Daily involvment entails carrying out various jobs on aircraft ranging from complex tasks such as skin repairs, Landing Gear and Engine chnages to simple tasks such as topping up the oil or hydraulics, changing a wheel or a visual inspection of the aircraft.

Upon starting the apprenticeship I carried out 5 months of hand skills which involved filing, drilling, riveting, shapping, cutting metals. We made certain test pieces which were reviewed by our supervisor. After this we carried out an intense 2 and half month theory course which would would give us a Part 66 A Licence. To gain this licence a certain amount of practical experience has to be carried before applying for this licence.

I enjoy all aspects of my programme but am particually fond of Line Maintenance. All the engineers I have worked with have been willing to help with my development if it be the practical or theory side of the job. Within our company there is a very good work ethic which I believe has set a good example for all apprentices coming through the scheme.

Our manager is very keen to find out how we are getting on and the types of tasks we are involved in. Particular interest is shown on the exams that we take and if we are achieving the goals set. Each apprentice is assgined a mentor whilst carrying out Base Maintenance who is assigned to support and guide us through that period. Whilst carrying out Line Maintenance you are not assinged to a certain engineer as the work varries constanstly between the engineers. So you are usually assigned to a task each day by the Duty Manager. Experience is a vital part of being an aircraft engineer and your involvement in tasks will become greater the more you can prove yourself to be competent.

The apprenticeship scheme has changed since I started my apprenticeship and all initial training is now carried out at a training facility where theory and practical experience are gained. To become a licenced engineer there are 3 licences which can be taken. Mechanics Licence is a 'A', Further Mechanics Licence is a 'B1' and an Avionics Licence is a 'B2'. The apprenticeship scheme pays for the 'A' licence course which is the main requirement before finsihing the apprenticeship. Now having finished my 'A' Licence I am starting my 'B1' which is a lot more involved than the 'A' Licence. Our managers are keen for us to pursue this licence and our willing to help in any way they can. I feel that the apprenticeship scheme is well organised and all very benefical.

We receive support from our training provider when neccessary and they are always willing to help solve any problems that we may have.

Throughout all assests of the company we receive the appropriate amount of support.

Our salary meets all the requirements to meet our costs.

Being local to our main base in Luton my life has stayed very similar except for the fact that I now go to work everyday.

Yes

I would reccomend TUI UK as it is a very enjoyable job that keeps you mentally and physically challenged.

Since having started my apprenticeship the application process has changed and I am not aware of what is involved. But some advice would be to carry out research and have a good understanding of what TUI UK is all about.