CI / PI Technician Review

I recently got the role of the continuous improvement technician for Campus which involves looking at the day to day operation and waste to eliminate waste in processes to enable to enhance the value each task creates to a process. I have to work with various different teams on the campus and lead by example with a can do attitude.

Although I haven't completed my apprenticeship yet there have been many skills I have already learnt through the programme which has enabled me to develop my understanding of what a continuous improvement technician is and how they can utilise the skills to the maximum potential in order to making a business more successful.

I am currently 5 months into a 13 month programme and the team I have been placed with is great. I travel to the course each month and meet the same group where we can discuss our experiences and listen to one another's opinions and views on how we are implementing these skills into our workplace. At first I was a little unsure how it would work as we all had different backgrounds and processes but after listening to how another DHL site works I have been able to bring some of the ideas back to our own campus

Being 1 of 2 DHL employees at this campus who is on the course I feel very valued as there is no other employee with the knowledge and skills which I am currently being taught. Once the programme is complete and I pass my Level 2 apprenticeship I am really looking forward to using the methods in my day to day job

The programme is great. It is easy to follow and understand. Everyone works together as a team and there is no competition of who is better than anyone else. If someone doesn't understand a particular part or section of the course the instructor and the rest of the team break that section down and explain it in different ways for the person to understand. You are fully supported by the trainer and the rest of the group.

The tutor is great. He seems to realise when I don't quite understand something and he will come across and explain in more detail. He is very supportive when you are there on the programme and also if you needed to contact him on days when your not on the course he will offer help and advice. So far I am really enjoying the course and looking forward to starting our first project in a few months time.

My direct manager is a big supporter of the programme and asks lots of question when I return from being on the course. He takes a really good interest in what skills I have learnt and then quickly gives me the chance to put them skills into practice. Once completed I would like to present to other managers what I have learnt so they are aware of what the programme is about also.

The cost for me personally is fine. I get the same regular income and if when travelling to and from the course I have my fuel and expenses paid for by the company. The journey isn't too far away and so I see no issue with cost

If I am honest I haven't really looked what is outside of DHL as I am very keen to continue my journey with DHL after 13 years of service. This new path I have decided to take as opened up a whole a lot of learning for me and development which I enjoy. I feel there is so much more I can bring to the business upon completing my course and I would like to continue onto the Level 3 apprenticeship if that is an option.

Yes

There is always room for growth and development with such a large company. If you put the hard work in you will come out with so many new skills. There are different areas to work in. Personally I have worked in admin, stock, customer services, copacking, production manager and continuous improvement.

Read up on what DHL actually do do. They are not just a parcel service. There is a lot more to DHL than just that. Take each day as a new day to learn something. Be open minded about the paths you wish to take and don't be afraid to give something a go.