Machine Shop Apprentice Review

I machine parts from either billet or a finilise parts that have been made else where that need further machining. I go to college twice a week at uxbridge college, where i do all assessments, write ups, during the working day I help to train first year apprentices the basic principles of engineering

I came to Martin-Baker with very little experience in engineering and after just one year of my apprenticeship I can confidentlly load, programe and run the machines. I learnt nearly all of my skills from Martin-Baker rather than the college as you learn from people who have years of experience in machining.

I had a after-school job when from 14 to 16 and I used to dread going there, but here at Martin-Baker I enjoy it and i can wake up on a monday morning happy. The only down side to the apprenticeship is the college, I feel they are a little un-organised.

At Martin-Baker there is a great structure where you can move around the whole factory and get experience from all sections so you can decide what you prefer. With college work I am the first year to do the "standards" programe what is the new Btec so it's a little unorganised as no one at college has done it before

From Martin-Baker I recive alot of support such as: if I am behind with college work they will dedicate time for me at work to complete it. Also you arent rushed for work to be done here so you can take your time and learn as much as you can.

I recive some support when doing work such as knowledge questions and write ups by giving you examples of others or creating a template. At college they can also give you a work list todo so you can work your way down the list and have a structure on how you do things.

I feel that I would have learnt more by now if i spent those two days a week at work where I learn more about machining but college is more about engineering as a whole rather than specific types of engineering, you also dont get as much one on one time at college

During our apprenticeship at Martin-Baker we help to select new apprentices by helping on the selection days and looking through CVs. We also go to air shows such as the Air Tattoo, for this we also do projects to display at the shows, I am currently involved in a project that will be displayed this year.

Yes

I would reccomend the Martin-Baker apprenticeship as Martin-Baker is very good to their apprentices and give them the opportunity to learn many new skills and have a job for life. You also get the opportunity to be able to take you education further by going onto a degree or HNC

If you are going to apply for a Martin-Baker apprenticeship I would reccommend have or trying engineering experience before hand and be very passionate about what you want to do as when you enjoy doing something, you will learn faster and more. Even if you dont think you have a chance, still go for it if you enjoy it.