Trainee Engineer Review

On a day to day basis in the office I complete many different types of forms and diagrams such as Staging Diagrams, Weld Diagrams, Work Package Plans, Task Briefs, Bar Charts, G-Forms(Speed Raising), Critical Rail Temperature Forms (CRT), Stressing Plans, Tamping Files etc. On site I would use many different types of equipment to ensure everything goes in correctly such as; Trimble Total Station Kit with back sight prisms and multitrack prisms, 2D Rugby Laser with Rodeye and messfix, Tape measure and 5 Point Laser etc. All this can help you dig to the right depth doze the correct formation and have the track at the right height, cant and slue.

Yes, upon starting this apprenticeship I knew nothing about the railway, now after 5 months I feel like I'm exploding with knowledge and I am not done yet. I have learnt in many different environment but the Colas Rail apprenticeship do it a different way that really does help you extract your talents and build upon your weaknesses. I do feel as though this programme has helped more than anything ever has before and I can see a long career on the railway for me in the future.

I love getting up for work no matter when I'm on nights or days. There's always something new for me to take away from that shift. It is a very fulfilling job and I enjoy every moment.

I feel very looked after by my Company, from day one my managers and the other engineers I work with took me under their wing and they do dedicate time to me to help me develop my skills. I'm always involved with the work and they understand when I make mistakes.

I believe it is better structured than any other apprenticeship, rather than having one day a week at a college, all 11 apprentices from around the country all go to Birmingham to attend a training centre for a week. This happens 9 times throughout the year. When I'm not there I'm either in the office or out on site learning on the job.

Our trainer really cares for both us and the programme as they spent 9 months writing it for us. He is always waiting on the other end of the phone in case we need anything or have a question. He is really dedicated to ensuring we all excel on this programme.

My employer is always there to help no matter what issues I have e.g. IT. My manager is always ready if I have a question or a problem.

I am paid very well, plus the overtime and Christmas bonuses, I will take home £19,000 after tax as a first year apprentice. Which is more than enough to cover my costs of living.

Yes there is a Colas Rail football team there are award nights for railway awards.

Yes

It is at the top of the apprenticeship game at this time as this apprenticeship is like no other.

To show yourself to be intelligent, confident, have the ability to take lead and step back. Be yourself and be ready to work hard.