Lead Software Engineer Review

Providing DevOps support on a large scale project, ensuring functional teams have a stable, working environment in which software releases can be frequent and efficient. Developing an Azure Platform via an Automation framework, built by integrating Powershell with automated build tools such as Jenkins. Software / Tool-Platform maintenance via Chef / Ruby scripting.

Many - Test Automation through Groovy and Selenium, SQL, basic Java / understanding stack-traces and other miscellaneous errors, Powershell, working with Cloud Platforms such as Azure, Chef, Ruby. Additionally, I've learned how to operate in various working environments, and work closely with members of the business, and practiced how to adhere to stringent security policies.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the programme as a whole. The opportunities for learning the apprenticeship and degree scheme have provided have been second to none, with the added benefit of having the ability to apply this learning in a working environment allows me to solidify this learning in an even more structured and relevant manner.

Overall, the timeline of my programme was very well structured. The first two years were dedicated to the Higher Apprenticeship, providing me with plenty of time to learn the basics of working in an IT environment. The next three years were dedicated to the Degree Programme, and have furthered my understanding of the breadth of languages and tools that are used within the job role.

Throughout the entire programme, I have never had any problems with getting support or advice from the relevant members of my team. Support for the Apprenticeship and Degree has always been very succinct and informative, with the same being said for any job-role related queries. I have never once found myself stuck in any situation, without at least guidance on who to speak to.

Support has always been available from the Degree provider, Aston University, with various individuals providing regular e-mails and correspondence to ensure it's clear that they're available to help. However, the structure and accessibility of help and guidance from specific modules can be lacking in some cases - a point which always differs between module and tutor.

Due to the nature of the role I have, I feel that the learning I have gained throughout the programme hasn't always been relevant to my daily tasks. For example, I do not work with web development or any of the languages in this field. However, picking up and learning various languages for the degree programme has enabled me to look into doing the same for my job role, meaning I can keep improving my own relevant abilities, through independent learning.

There are regularly professional networking events broadcasted across various corporate e-mails, in which we are invited to just as any other non-apprentice employee. Additionally, specialty teams also frequently broadcast and invite apprentices to relevant training / networking events. Social events are also always inclusive of apprentices, including on-project socials and Christmas parties.

Yes

Due to the nature of the opportunity the Degree Programme provides, working with Capgemini as an Apprentice is a fantastic chance to kick off a career in Software Engineering. The breadth of the topics and skills the Degree covers assists you in understanding which particular field or skill you'd like to specialise in, whilst the working opportunities will enable you to gain experience in this role on a daily basis.

The best approach is to be honest when applying - any experience or ability in specific aspects of the field will help the company in aligning your interests with a working role or specialism. Additionally, jumping into all of the opportunities the Degree provides is key to succeeding on the programme, regardless of your ability - support is always available, and Capgemini readily provide guidance and assistance wherever required.