Product Design Engineer Review

My job role mainly consists of CAD. This involves creating CAD models of Body Structures components as this is my sub department. This can be creating models from scratch or creating brand new models that are needed for future vehicles. The engineering behind the component is also done as a part of this.

My CAD ability was non existent before the start of this course. JLR has taught me how to create robust and adaptable CAD models that are fit for any vehicle model. The Foundation Degree training provided by Warwickshire College is mediocre at best, poor teaching and dreadful organisation are a cause of this.

When at college, the programme has seemed laborious and draining however the actual job role in the business is always stimulating. Each day can bring new problems whcih require solving however it is always enjoyable. The company respects the value of the apprentices so the work completed is always appreciated.

Within my department, due to the large number of apprentices, the programme is structures very well. There is a clear path which I am following and I always know what to expect in regards to the course. There is allocation for studying which allows us to complete college work as well as support from older apprentices.

Jaguar Land Rover is extremely supportive of the apprentices due to the value of the work that we do. The mentors (older apprentices) provide technical CAD support where needed and there are CAD trainers available if a difficult issue arise. The managers are also always supportive of issues outside of work.

Up until very recently, the college has been abysmal at providing support, the lecturers have been rude and sometimes derogatory. Recently however, the support has marginally improved due to a string of poor results which has forced the college into providing more support to push the grades up. Support from the work based learning managers is the best option always.

The level of the maths and mechanics material at college has been far and beyond what is necessary for the job role. The abysmal teaching has lead to many students losing touch with the subjects and it has lead to very low grades. The CAD based job role does not necessarily require much maths or mechanics knowledge to be done well.

There are many Jaguar Land Rover extra curricular clubs available for all of the apprentices. On site there is a gym which Jaguar Land Rover employees can sign up to as well as leisure clubs (such as the sailing society). Social events are often organised by the employees without contribution from the business.

Yes

The apprenticeship pays incredibly well, more than most others will find on a graduate programme. The qualifications that are gained from Warwick University will set the apprentice up to work anywhere afterwards however staying at Jaguar Land Rover will be particularly rewarding, especially having spent 6 years already working here.

The application process is pretty straight forward. Once the aptitude test shave been passed then the assessment day is fairly easy. A thorough knowledge of cars is not necessary however some interest in the field would definitely be recommended. The best advice that I would give is to ensure that you have some sort of passion for CAD or cars as this will make the job role more enjoyable.