CAD Engineer Review

I am CAD engineer. I used a range of Autodesk software to produce technical drawings for customer/engineer use. I'm also responsible for BIM (Building Information Modelling) aspect related to projects. This involves create intelligent 3D models and implementing them into customer site models.

I have learnt many new skills since starting my apprenticeship. I started off cutting and crimping cables, then moved on to testing/fault finding switchboards and finally moved up into design. In the design role I was trained on the following programs: AutoCAD (2D and 3D) Inventor Revit Naviswork Not only this but they funded my Btec level 3 as well as my Foundation Degree. Which has increased my academic skills along side the my practical skills. Schneider has provided a lot of training and will often fund training you suggest providing you give good buisness reason as to why it'd be beneficial.

Over I thoroughly enjoyed my apprenticeship. The atmosphere was generally relaxed. Although there were times when certain employees came across as standoffish and weren't interested in teaching apprentices. But there are many great opportunities that you can make the most of if you choose. I never felt limited in what I could go on to do and its that atmosphere of company encouragement that I really enjoyed. (And still do.)

Schneider electric makes me feel like a valued employee. I genuinely get the sense that my work is appreciated within my department. Feedback is given frequently and bi yearly reviews are held with our manager where yearly goals are discussed and set. It's in these meetings that I feel most appreciated as my own goals and future plans are listened to and help is provided by my manager to aid me in reaching those targets.

Despite enjoying my apprenticeship and gaining a lot out of it I can't deny that it was poorly organised. Goals and plans were placed at the start however none were adhered to. Often apprentices were forgotten about by their mentors. Constant reminders had to be given from the apprentices to their mentors to make sure they cycled through departments correctly, the same occurred for pay. Unless pursued by the apprentice, promised pay rises were completely forgotten about. Not only this, but contacting our mentor could be difficult also. That being said, if you're self driven you can still get a lot out of the apprenticeship program.

I received a good amount of support when I completing my NVQ + BTEC. Regular meetings would be held at Schneider Electric to ensure the apprentices were all on track with finishing their courses. Extra help was provided if someone was struggling with their academic work.

Now that I've settled into a permanent job role the support that I receive from my employer is really good. I'm constantly encouraged to do more and funded to go on courses to better my skills. During the apprenticeship however the support from mentors was a lot less. Often felt as if I was just a nuisance. However the support that I got from most individual employees I worked with was good.

The initial pay for an apprentice is quite encouraging, however promised pay rises rarely occur unless you chase up your mentor or HR. I haven't had a promised pay rise occur on the planned date since starting. Every time I've had to chase someone up and often the pay rise comes months late, and even a year late in one incident. If you make no noise about it Schneider will conveniently forget. But once the pay starts to crawl to a decent level it's enough to live on.

Schneider is always putting on events out side of work. They often draw large parts of the company together for a day or two for networking and communication. Department social occasions are also organised regularly and it good to become around your colleges in an environment that isn't work every so often. It brings the team together.

Yes

The atmosphere, generally speaking, is relax, inviting and encouraging. You really feel like the company wants to invest it's time and effort into you so that you succeed. There's many opportunities for personal and professional growth so long as an employee is motivated to pursue those opportunities. And if they are Schneider supports them all the way.

I would advise at least some form electrical knowledge/experience before applying. Although this isn't necessary. And make sure you're eager to learn! I'd also say: Be patient. Be ready to work hard and engage in as many opportunities as you can. and be ready to constantly hassle HR over pay.