Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

We partake 6 month rotations around the business. This gives apprentices a change to experience multiple disciplines within the umbrella of Software, Hardware, Systems in either Power or Avionics. Currently I am working for Through life engineering department which look at reliability, testability and maintainability of a product or components.

Yes, during this rotation I have learnt how to calculate reliability of components, and how engineers should be looking at the whole product lifecycle even during development phase and the implications if this isn't done. The whole apprenticeship has taught me skills such as, presenting, managing projects, working with others, processes of a business, finance, organizing time and more.

The variety of work there is to do at one time. For most of the time and apprentice could be carrying out systems testing or presenting to a room of managers, then some of the time be organizing event days to encourage more young people into engineering and STEM subjects.

There is a lot to manage with over 50 apprentices across the 5 years. Rotations can differ in time change if extensions have been granted. Also half of the apprenticeship is spent studying at GlosCol and the other at UWE. The structure is there, the priorities need to be understood.

A lot, they help me out with a lot of personal confrontations I face, and will offer support to anyone who needs it. The managers for rotations also offer a lot of support with weekly meetings and both sets of managers communicate when positive or concerning matters arise. They also provide continuous opportunities for my development asking the right questions and presenting me with leadership opportunities which I may not gain elsewhere.

Apprentices and training providers work closely in providing continuous feedback on the programs and each lesson throughout the 5 years, managers, apprentice representatives and representatives of both the University and college attend to work in agreement addressing issues which may occur. During lesson time, support may vary per lecturer/teacher.

I am able to link some aspects learnt in university with my work at GE. It has provided me with a level of knowledge and understanding which makes learning more understandable when experiencing new projects at work. Work development also allows me to transfer my skills to university to help better my qualification such as managing projects, structuring work, and working in a team.

There are Triathlon teams, Football clubs, palates, there are others who partake in Netball outside of work. I have taken part in climbing Welsh Three peeks with many GE employees for charity. A lot of employees are part of the IET so there are organized trips to their events too.

Yes

If you have a passion for engineering, there are lots of opportunities to develop and share that passion with others by performing at work and taking part in events such as Cheltenham Science Festival, RIAT, etc. Also the opportunity to progress learning Masters Level as well as developing managerial skills.

Do your research on the company, talk to as many people as possible at other opportunities to make sure its right for you as its a 5 year commitment. Understand the roles and responsibilities at the workplace. In terms of application, take part in extra curricular activities which have transferable skills and part time jobs, show your interest in engineering and professionalism and passion to learn.