Apprentice Traction Rolling Stock Review

day to day jobs include travelling to the machine, the machines are sometimes in remote areas, so driving is a big part oft the job itself. Once arrived at the machine daily maintenance begins which with starting the machine up, checking oil levels, greasing the machine and doing a function test on all of the machines components.

I have learned new skills such as soldering and being able to actually traction the machines which i enjoy doing. I am constantly developing my craft skills with the continued use of hand tools and power tools. Furthermore, being able to work as a team is also a big part of the job.

I thoroughly enjoy my programme, it is exactly what I wanted, studying both disciples; mechanical and electrical is exactly what I want to do with my life. Furthermore, studying these disciplines in the rail industry kept me motivated as I enjoy working in this sector and have a keen interested.

Prior to starting the course I was told to move got Rugby and I went off my own back and arranged accommodation for myself, I spent thousands of pounds on upkeep and rent on the house and the way the course was structured I was only really going to be in Rugby at weekends and sometimes when I was on placements, therefore I gave up the house. Fast forward 7 months to present time the course has much more structure and i am happy.

My employer made it very clear that if anyone needs support just ask, a lot is being done with the company to try and support people who need help, there's a big focus towards suicide prevention and mental health, the company even pays for people to go out on courses and learn how to spot signs of someone who might in-fact need support

The training provided from the employer is also very good, they spend thousands of pounds making sure that our training is the best and if its not they will take actions to rectify it, also if you need any additional support then they will gladly send you away somewhere to receive training, no questions asked.

The qualification I'm working towards ties in exactly with the job I want and the career i want to work towards. After the 3 year apprenticeship my employer will do everything in its power to make sure that I am deemed competent to carry out my job role and safe.

At the start of the course there were networking events taking place and throughout the year they are sporadically popping up, but these are very limited and not very well communicated. Apart from networking events there are opportunity to apply for being an apprentice ambassador which would look good on you.

Yes

Colas Rail are a big company and if you get your head down, work hard and want to do well within the company, then you can go anywhere within the company. The company will also look after you and any problems you have personal or work related they try and sort them

The rail industry in general is a very demanding and rewarding sector, anyone applying for colas rail or any company within the railway they should be prepared to work hard, work weekends and work nightshift. The railway is one the highest divorcing industry because of the hours and you need to travel around the country.