Apprentice Engineering Technician Review

The Arup apprenticeship allows you to study for an academic qualification while working and learning in our offices alongside respected, technical professionals. As an apprentice, I study at Bridgwater and Taunton college on day release (wednesdyas), working towards an accredited qualification (Level 3 construction and the built environment) and combine this experience with workplace learning. I have been given a mentor who guides me through my professional and personal development. I also have regular contact with our learning and development advisor.

I have learnt to use many new software including: MicroStation, this is a CAD software product for two and three dimensional design and drafting, developed and sold by Bentley Systems. gINT, I can report and manage subsurface data in many ways with custom reports including graphics, photos, charts, maps, and more. The software helps me manage borehole, well logs, CPT, and geophysical logs. You can also create fence diagrams, graphs, tables, and any other reports.

I think my programme is one of the better available programs on the market. I have my one day at college which I find interesting and relatable to my work. I have many opportunities to attend meetings and events both in and out of the office and am actively encouraged to do so.

I feel I am always encouraged to attend the social events the office holds. I find I am asked by all grades of staff whether I am attending and always feel welcomed by people. I feel Arup look after all of their employees in both in and out of work.

I feel my apprenticeship programme with Arup is very well structured and organised. I feel this because I know exactly where I can/will be in 2/5/10 years’ time. Having may other apprentices in the office makes the programme more structured as we can all follow each other’s path and know what to expect when.

feel Bridgwater and Taunton college have poor communication between both students, teachers and my employer. There have been a few instances where we have not had teacher turned up. We have also had to re complete certain forms as they had been lost. I find that the course content is good but not delivered particularly well.

I feel my employer (Arup) offer me lots of constructive support in both my work and my education paths. Older apprentices and colleagues are always there to help with assignments and any questions relating to college and the work I am doing. I also have support in the extra things I want to do such as being a STEM ambassador and joining the Army reserves.

Compares to other apprentices on the same college course as me, it spears that my salary and benefits package is much more generous than that of other similar apprenticeships around. I feel that the salary is good, however it isn’t quite enough for me to move out of my parents’ house and live on my own. However, I think this is just because of Bristol being an expensive place tom live in general.

There are many opportunities to do thing outside of work. These include social events in our disciplines, away weekends and support to do other things. I am keen on applying for the army reserves and I have been used the support will be there for when I need it. As well as this I am a STEM ambassador so, I get to volunteer quite often.

Yes

Arup is a great company to work for. This is because of many reasons. These include: being well looked after, having a great sense of belonging, great career progression and some of the best working conditions.

I would say, to anyone joining Arup, firstly, well done. Arup is a hard company to get into and have high standards when recruiting staff. So if you have been offered a job relax a bit when you come to work.