Machine Shop Apprentice Review

As a Tool Room apprentice I am responsible for programming, setting and operating CNC mills and lathes to produce the specialist tooling required to manufacture and maintain ejection seats. My typical day involves machining and assembling various different types of tooling, ranging from pressure test adaptors to araldite fixtures. As a Tool Maker you are responsible for the whole process from start to finish, from sourcing and preparing the raw material to assembling, fitting and testing the finished tool.

Before working at Martin Baker I had no experience in machining, this wasn't an issue as my mentors and colleagues trained me from the very basics. With decades of experience each they have a wealth of knowledge to pass on. Martin Baker has a wide variety of equipment that apprentices are trained on such as manual and CNC mills as well as Lathes, Spark eroder's and cylindrical grinders that provide a great foundation in engineering. In addition to doing a NVQ at work I have also passed my level 3 BTEC in engineering and am working towards a HNC that I do on day release basis.

I enjoy working for Martin Baker, being part of a company that produces an incredible product that saves lives is extremely satisfying and this is something that is felt through out the company. Despite this the culture of the company can be old-fashioned at times which can prove frustrating when trying to suggest new ideas or improvements.

The apprenticeship programme is split into two sections; Work based learning and College Learning. Whilst at work you work towards a NVQ which is structured with monthly progress meetings and updates to keep track on your progress. In addition 6 monthly appraisals take place to keep track of your overall progress, if everything is satisfactory then you will be given a pay rise. The college courses are clearly organised into individual units and assignments that are made clear at the start of the course.

Martin Baker support all of their apprentices both at college and at work, if there are ever any problems with college then the team in HR will deal with them quickly. In addition the managers are always on hand to provide support and advice to apprentices, with some of them having been through the apprenticeship scheme they have a good idea of what you are going through and are always happy to help.

Tutors and staff at Uxbridge college are helpful when it comes to working towards my HNC and are always patient and happy to answer any questions. Despite this the college don't seem to offer the same level of support for the NVQ side of the apprenticeship, they don't always attend the monthly meetings so we cant get support and guidance from them.

Studying a BTEC and HNC has helped me to gain an understanding of basic engineering principles that are hugely helpful at work. Having a wider understanding of engineering helps me to make informed decisions that improve both my productivity and work and will also prove valuable in many other job roles.

The apprentices are involved lots of extra curricular trips and activities. For example a team of apprentices is involved in preparing and helping out for various different air shows such as RIAT and Duxford. We have also been on trips to military bases such as RAF Odiham to see our products in action on the Chinook Outside of work Martin Baker have a football team that runs on a Tuesday evening as well as a departmental cricket team that runs in the summer. In addition the apprentices have regular social events though-out the year.

Yes

Martin Baker provide a great apprenticeship scheme that provides a a fantastic base for the engineering industry. There is a good balance between work and college based learning alongside the opportunity to acquire industry recognised qualifications. In addition there is the opportunity for apprentices to progress throughout the company into various different job roles as well as the potential for further education.

Make sure you show that you're passionate and enthusiastic about engineering, any hobbies or interests that are related to engineering will help your application to stand out from the crowd. During the selection day make sure you listen to the other candidates and ask lots of questions to there current apprentices.