Degree Appentice Review

I am in a CAD role and build CAD models to help with the future development of the new programmes. The models are anything from whole headlamp packages to small fixing clips. I have regular meetings with lead engineers to discuss my progress and to help with my model builds.

Yes I have learnt how to think ahead to plan into my models what could change in the future. I also learnt some theory in college on maths, materials, manufacturing processes amongst many other subjects. Part of my job role involves speaking to other people and this has helped to develop my interpersonal skills, having the confidence of how to speak to people I have never met before and also how to pitch any ideas or to show off my model.

I feel the programme offers many opportunities to develop myself as a person and an engineeer. I am able to attend many training courses to build my CAD knowledge and academic skills. I enjoy this a lot and like to push myself to develop further.

I feel that people want to involve apprentices in what they do and will go out their way to help develop us into future engineers. The management will help us and speak to us if we have any problems. I do however feel that it is easy for the quieter people to be overlooked a little, especially when it comes to recognition and opportunities within the company.

The programme in my department feels very organised. The managers have put together a plan to help take us through the course week by week, so we know exactly what we are doing and when. There is a fair amount of training to be completed.

We have a lot of support throughout the course, we have a review every 12 weeks to ensure we are keeping on track with our behaviours and progression throughout the course. My department also has weekly reviews to ensure we know what we have to complete for the week, giving us something to aim for.

JLR ensures we have regular meetings to ensure we are meeting our targets and also keeping on track with our CAD levels and behaviours. Our managers are always available to talk about problems or any issues we may have.

I feel the salary helps me to live how I want to live and also save for the future. It gives me opportunities I couldnt think of if I wasnt in this position.

The location is great there are plenty of clubs and activites to do outside of work. JLR also gives some opportnities to take part in events and activities outside of work to get involved with the community and socialise with other employees.

Yes

This is a great way to start a career in the engineering field away from the typical university route. JLR offers many opportunities for development whether it is for training or personal development with the ELS scheme. On top of this the pay is a huge bonus giving me the opportunity to live more comfortably. Having no debt at the end and completing a degree alongside is another great benefit to the Degree appenticeship scheme.

Get involved with as much as possible that JLR will offer you to help develop you and your career. They are more than happy to help you with training you need to better yourself as an engineer and become a valuable asset to the company.