Automation Engineering Apprentice Review

I am Control Systems Apprentice who has just completed my first. The first year I attended college full time. In year one we work towards achieving HNC and NVQ level 2 qualification. The course is made up of a mixture of classroom lectures and workshops. We learn various electrical systems and electrical testing as part of the course.

I feel I have learnt many new skills. Throughout the course I had the opportunity to carry out practical work related to the course. This included soldiering, electrical testing and electronic circuit building. I was able to apply theory work (Electrical AC/DC circuits) to practicals. I become more confident in my practical ability.

I really enjoy this programme because the programme offers a great pathway to becoming an engineering. The programme offers many qualifications, and the opportunity to work and train in the Amazon warehouse. I feel confident by the end of the apprenticeship I will have the necessary training to become a qualified engineer. I have huge interest in control systems and automation, and look forward to learning about this in the upcoming years of the programme.

The programme I feel is overall well structured. It is structured in a way to develop the skills to become an engineer by the end of year 4. The programme includes Siemens PLC programming course. HND in Electrical and Electronics engineering, and BEng Degree in Control engineering. Although on a day to day basis, there can be some confusion/lack of organisation at the training college.

I received plenty of support throughout the first year of the programme from the employer Amazon. This was through the Amazon team who specifically managed the course. At the start we were introduced to the programme leaders and had the opportunity ask any questions. At certain points of the year, the programme leaders would arrange a meeting with us.

I received a lot of support from the training provider Siemens. This could be through the programme leaders or the classroom lecturers. Support is available face to face, email or phone. I did have a few issues regarding the structure of the course at start, but my issues were quickly dealt with.

The course is structured in such a way, that each year you progress to a higher level. By the end of the programme you achieve a degree in control systems engineering. In the first year you learn the basic foundation of electrical and electronic engineering. The end goal is to become a qualified engineer, and I feel the course will enable me to become one.

There are many opportunity to bond with other people on the programme. The programme providers do organise team building activities for the students. On days off we have the opportunity take part in activities outside of college such as cinema, clubbing and football. The course is structured in such a way, that we have plenty of time to relax.

Yes

The programme is a great way to become a qualified engineer. The programme offers many qualifications and enables you to gradually gain the necessary skills to become an engineer, over the four years. The programme combines class room based learning and work based practical learning. The pay package is also really good for a starting apprentice.

I would say first to make sure you prepare well for the online tests for the application. At the interview stage, be confident and show enthusiasm for the role. If you’re unsure ask any questions you have to the programme leaders. Only apply if you’re genuinely interested in engineering, as this is a four year programme.