Powertrain Research Electrification Enigneer Review

My role is project based so the day to day work varies depending on the project type and stage it is at. I can be working in the lab building and testing battery cells then analysing the test data. I can be project managing internal projects or government funded projects with multiple companies working for me. The project management work will consist of people management, spending management and documentation.

Due to the diverse role i have gained skills ranging from software, people skills and physical skills within cell builds etc. I get to apply these fairly frequently so I dont forget how to use them. There will be other opportunities that may appear too such as CAD and CAE work as i take on different projects in the future.

The first year of the apprenticeship was the worst year of my life. I hated every second of the full time college experience at Trident college. As my time in work increased and i gained more experience and responsibility the programme gradually became more enjoyable. The third year when we joined Warwick University the course was very enjoyable but definitely more challenging. this has continued each year following getting better and better as I now work as a fully capable engineer with my own work load.

the first two years in college was very messy and unorganised with random calls to go back to college for unknown assessments and to finish of modules they couldn't fit into the time they planned out. Everything in the office is very well planned out. The University aspect is also very well planned out.

Support can very depending on your manager and job role. Some managers will set up placement programs and training so you learn everything you need for your job role and for personal development. On top of this some managers give you a day a week to complete University work. On the other side some managers will keep you in your assigned area of work and not allow any time to work on University work. In my area I have been quite lucky.

Warwickshire college difficulty level is very low as it is lower or the same as previous qualifications i had completed so no support is needed but i would imagine the support from most staff would be poor as they are overworked. University support is very good for 90% of your lecturers, they will always answer emails on ongoing work but can be poor when giving written feedback on exams/reports.

The first two years has some benefit when learning about processes and manufacturing aspects. the University side would be better if it was completed earlier as key topics such as project management and other application courses are completed after you have already learnt most of this in the work place.

I believe there are events and clubs you can join. I had ran a football team within research which played against other departments. I believe there is a karting event every year. Many activities are advertised on company wide emails for us to take part in but I have many activities out of work so have never took interest in them.

Yes

I know they are changing the degree apprenticeship so that there is no more college and everything but the college aspect is very good. The pay is great and you learn a lot. You also get a free degree and very valuable experience that you can add to your CV.

Getting good grades gets you on the potentials list. The rest of is is behaviours as this is a focus throughout the business as a performance criteria focus. Confidence and people management is key as well as being organised and logical about problem solving. Be the leader in the group activity during the interview day but dont be pushy and get everyone involved within the group. Be the one to take notes too!