Mechanical Project Apprentice Review

I am a mechanical project engineer at BAE, my first year was spent full time in college getting my BTEC L3 in Mech Eng. My second year was made up of 4 three month placements in the 'services' area in the machine shop, boiler house, calibration etc. My 3rd year was made up of 4 three month placements with the maintenance staff on different process'. My 4th year is made up of 3 four month placements in the engineering department on different projects, working on product design, material selection and working on product trials.

I have achieved a distinction in BTEC L3 and HNC in Mech Eng, I have learned a vast amount in terms of machining, maintenance, machine servicing and repairs, equipment calibration etc. I have also attended number of courses including asbestos awareness, working at heights, explosive management, design for manufacturing amongst others. I have learned a lot about material characterisation, design features of products etc within the engineering function.

I have enjoyed the work and learning many new skills, the variety of things you can get involved in helps to keep you interested.

The company definitely values its apprentices and provides opportunities for them. Projects your involved in sometimes treat you as a bystander because of your inexperience but as you learn, you have more to contribute and are given bigger responsibilities

There is a good structure to the course however it is a general 'apprentice' structure and is not tailored to your end role very much.

I received a lot of help and support from my apprentice manager in work and college

There is financial funding for training etc when needed plus employee benefits however there has not been a vast amount of input from HR or other parts of the company.

The salary is competitive and progresses throughout the apprenticeship and is enough to cover costs if you are living at home. It would be difficult to afford living costs if you have a mortgage/rent. Especially in the first 2/3 years.

There are a number of opportunities outside work such as a big build project, site visits etc.

Yes

Because it is a good company that will provide education and support throughout.

Ensure that you do background research and learn about the different products/processes on site.