Apprentice Engineer Review

My current job title is Apprentice Engineer and my daily tasks so far have been focused toward engineering drawings and progress of the project tasks I have been assigned. This has included mechanical drawings, electrical drawings, and documentation. My tasks can also be more focused on practical applications, such as testing devices and building devices from my own drawings. My normal daily interactions are mostly based around the departmental team where I am based and my immediate apprentice manager. I have had interactions with external companies and consultants but not on a day to day basis. My responsibilities encompass my project tasks and the consequences of them.

The qualifications on this scheme are very good. By the end of this scheme, I will have a NVQ level 2 in Performing Engineering Operations, a NVQ level 4 in Engineering, a HNC, HND, and a degree in engineering. Training courses internally are also good, so far I have been taught to use several versions of computer aided design software, and three versions of electrical electronic design and simulation software. External training is good as well, with external companies coming in to complete training using LabView. Training will also depend on department and current tasks. During my time here, I have been sent on a course to learn how to use a CMM.

The work is very interesting and has allowed me to learn many new skills and develop others. I have spent a lot of time on some projects and less on others so I am proud of what I have done so far. The team I am working with in my department are very helpful and knowledgeable. The company culture is very relaxed, friendly and everyone is polite. I thoroughly enjoy working here.

I feel that my manager appreciates my work and has expressed admiration at its quality and depth. I have been recognised internally by my peers for some of the work I have done and have also organised training opportunities for others for their benefit. I am involved in current design and build projects at the moment, which constitutes most of my day. I am involved in design and update meetings where my input and updates are required by the project leader.

The programme begins with a full two weeks of induction where the presidents introduce themselves and the departments of the company. The CEO also introduces himself and talks to us. After the first two weeks of induction, apprentices are sent to complete a NVQ level 2 in PEO. After that, there is another month long induction and training to prepare us for departmental work. My manager is very supportive and will help as much as he can, whatever the problem. The area managers are also happy to help, or give you time for studying. Mentors are assigned at the start and are arranged as per my needs. My manager and the project leader delegates tasks down to me through others or directly. I am currently working with engineers and have been able to give tasks to others when required.

My current college is Oaklands College in Hertfordshire. I have had some issues with this college, involving tutors and lectures. The level of support here has not been the best and I would have preferred a higher standard of teaching. Problems with the college have generally been avoided by them, and support has been lacking. Over the course of the HNC, I have been able to increase support from the college with the support of my apprentice manager. College as a whole is enjoyable and the work does help me learn.

The support from my employer is very good. My manager will always try to help and will stand by me. The HR team is also very good and very organised. They have helped me with my work and my manager has helped me when I needed his help. My mentor was knowledgeable and helped when I asked, he also tried is best to stand up for me and to assert a confidence so that I could take over when ready. Problems are solved with the help from managers and mentors and peers and the team knows that supporting the scheme is the best way to increase the knowledge of incoming engineers and technicians. They are happy to help and will take the time to explain if I ask.

The salary is a good starting salary for my first job and is more than enough for someone living with parents. I live close by and cycle so my travel costs are very low. There is a secure bike rack with plenty of space. The only cost of travel is to college, in Hertfordshire. This is a long drive but the wage is sufficient to pay for petrol. The company is close to the town centre with a lot of parking space that is free. Overall, the salary is good for a first job out of school and the increases are also good.

The company hosts a few events during the year for employees, but mostly for external members of the public. I have attended several events in schools promoting the scheme and have been elsewhere to teach younger children about science and engineering as part of an initiative to get more people into engineering. There are classes held outside of work time for Spanish and French and German, for those wishing to learn another language, by others on site. The local community is good and charity events are held often. The company is also close to the town centre, meaning good access to gyms and the leisure centre.

Yes

I think that the most important thing about a job is whether the work is interesting and engaging. My work varies with the project or task that I am working on. I enjoy the variety and so I am never bored. I am kept busy with interesting work that takes time to get through. It also makes me think about what I am doing. The work here is very interesting and I am constantly engaged and aware of the next task. This is the most important part of work and is why I would recommend to a friend.

The application process may have many steps, but the role is worth it. My advice would be to be confident and to talk about things that you know about. If you do not know, do not make it up, accept that you do not know and say. The people here like and admire honesty. If you have an idea or question , I think that it is best to ask. Curiosity is a good quality to have.