Machinist Review

My primary role is manual machinist, I have however self taught my self cnc machining and have undertaken a qualification in cnc turning along side my manual machining and mechanical maintenance course. Further to this I have also undertaken a level 4 HNC course all at the same time, all of which is complete as of now.

As mentioned prior, I have self taught cnc machining on the heidenhain systems. I have minor experience with Siemens but have very limited knowledge. I have learned how to maintain the machinery I use, as well as in depth knowledge regarding tool geometry and screws cutting to manufacture precision components.

The manufacturing side is incredibly good, with the majority of work being new, unique and with an element of challenge. Numerous repitions lose their appeal quickly especially simple but tied up objects with little room for error. Aside from this the mechanical maintenance side is enjoyable, however my experience was limited due to demand

The planning aspect of my apprenticeship could stand to improve, once confidence was built everything ran smoothly until the requirement for rotation was met, at which point the rotation into a new department was late and brief, depriving me of a full qualification in maintenance and leaving me with just bolt on units to my machining.

Generally all of the workforce are there to offer their insight to help you improve and learn new skills and gain knowledge, this is fairly consistent regardless of placement and the knowledge received is often extremely useful and help to build on e isting knowledge you may have to make you a better overall craft worker

In my nvq, at no particular fault, I was met with people moving roles and being switched about, meaning towards the end there was a large rush to get people finished which often saw long waiting times to get work looked at, once a large number has been signed off regular meetings could be scheduled weekly as opposed to bi monthly

With exception to maintenance, my experience with CNC machines will greatly enhance my skill within the workplace as it helped develop a greater understanding of speeds and feeds, tool geometry, screw cutting etc. All of which can be applied to manuals and, due to my qualification in cnc, can be used when learning new cnc languages

There are a variety of extra curricular activities, namely apprentice challenge. My placement, however, meant that I was not present during these types of events and they did not come to my placement due my position greatly differing from the rest, there are a number of courses that can be done instead however

Yes

With a workforce with a huge history and so much experience there are plenty of opportunities to improve yourself and learn your trade to be as efficient as possible in your role. With that in mind, considering the quality of training you receive, the pay and benefits are extremely good for the area aswell

The only advice that could stand to be recieved is that, due to the excellent training you receive that will set you up for life, when applying it is vital to ensure a great portfolio is submitted to help solidify your chance and position to be part of the company.