Aerospace Engineer Review

I split my team each week between university work and the work for my team. As well as completing my degree I also have an NVQ to complete which helps to ensure that my work is structured and varied. Often I shadow members of the team to learn new bits of software and how to use them within a specific project, other times I learn new ways of using the software to complete other tasks for the team. I focus on modelling software on a day to day basis, sometimes providing comparisons.

I have learnt a lot of new skills, which at first can seem quite daunting. But when broken down by a fellow colleague they are often not as bad as it seems. As well as covering the course content in my degree and my NVQ, I also attend internal training courses to ensure that I am developing more specific skills for my job role.

I really enjoy my programme. To begin with it was difficult to balance the workload, but with the support of my team this became better. The team dynamic is really good and no two days have to be the same if I wanted to try something different or help on another project. Although, my manager is good at allowing me to have a taster for most of what the team do which helps to gain a good experience.

The programme is well organised by my employer. There are some slight issues with the organisation of the training provider with supporting students/apprentices who are outside of their local area, although this has improved with time and they are now a bit more supportive of the fact that I don't live local to the training provider.

My employer is really supportive. I find them easy to talk to if I have any issues which enables them to be resolved quickly and before they become bigger. They are also really good at allowing me to attend internal and external training courses to help with my professional development, as well as supporting me with my apprenticeship qualifications.

The training provider are linked with the nearest university which helps to provide accurate information for the assessments involved. They could be better with the support provider to all students that attend, often there were signs of favoritism and lack of knowledge from some of the tutors which was difficult to deal with when trying to learn new subjects.

The qualification is really helpful in my job role, especially given the two different aspects that I cover with my degree and NVQ. The NVQ is a lot more heavily linked to the work that I do in my job role, where as the degree provides skills that I do use in my job role.

There is access to a gym, as well as many different clubs or teams to join dependent on interests. Some of the activities are often subsidised too. At the training provider there is also chances to get involved in social clubs too. When I first started my job there was a "new starters" club that meant that you could meet people in the same situation as you.

Yes

I feel that there is a great support network available, mixed with a large variety of job roles available. There are many different opportunities available for personal and professional development and the team spirit is really uplifting. This helps to make coming to work enjoyable, as well as feeling that my opinion is valued.

My advice for applying for DSTL is to remember to stay true to yourself as that will really shine through in applications and interviews. As well as having passion for what you do or want to do as this will show that you have drive and commitment for the work that you will be doing, whether this is an apprenticeship or other work.