Mechanical Engineering Apprentice Review

Currently i am receiving my training which is provided by QinetiQ. A day at work could consist of doing paper work which is used to show my engineering competency, designing and drawing components on 3D CAD, or going into the workshop to manufacture components either by hand using files and drills, or machining them on mills and lathes.

Since starting my apprenticeship, i have learnt skills in machining, CAD, health and safety, general engineering practices, as well as more fundamental skills like being organised and managing work loads. I started the apprenticeship with a very basic engineering knowledge which has been built up, giving me the ability to plan, design, and manufacture components.

I am generally happy with my program, however once i complete my training, i get to go on placement within Dstl which is what i am most looking forward to. This will mean i get to apply all my knowledge i have learn to real projects, and make an actual impact to the business.

The training we receive from QinetiQ seems quite dis-organised in the way things are done such as exams, lessons and even simple things such as organisation the rooms people are in. On the other hand Dstl are very structured in the way we do our apprenticeship, such as sorting out placements, extra training and courses, and mandatory civil service training.

Dstl are very supportive of their employees. This could be helping you to plan out your career by looking at which aspect of the business you would want to integrate into, providing degree opportunities, or generally helping if you have any issues. If i have any issues i don't have any problems going over to my line manager to receive assistance.

The amount of support i receive with regards to my qualifications very much depends on who i ask in the training school. A few tutors are excellent and will help you understand something, however generally it feels as if the tutors are checking off a list of what they have to teach you, and once they have done this, it is not their responsibility.

The training i receive from the training provider is necessary for me to conduct my role within Dstl, as personally i started the job with a very basic engineering knowledge, however it just feels disorganized and stretched out. Dstl provide extra training to help you gain even more skills such as IOSH, welding, radiation awareness and explosives.

At the current site i am at where i am doing my training, there are some good sporting facilities such as a fully equipped gym, squash courts, tennis courts and a football pitch. Over at Dstl, there are loads of activities to get involved in, which can be found on the company intranet. These can be social, sporting or professional.

Yes

Dstl is an excellent place to work at, as you feel like the work is making a big difference, as well as being at the cutting edge of technology. You also feel valued and that you are necessary to a project or team. You have the ability to progress with your career by offering degree level apprenticeships, which i would like to do next.

It is an excellent place to work, you just need to grit your teeth and get all the training done first. You don't need any prior engineering knowledge, but it doesn't hurt if you already have some. It is very helpful being able to drive, as i often find myself moving between sites.