technical apprentice Review

Day to day I attend morning meetings to gain a better understanding of daily operations, carry out data analysis to identify trends or reasons to why settings or changes on the lines are affecting quality. Generally learn the settings of the line to better understand it. A technical role here is to provide quality assurance.

Yes, having little experience of excel before after picking up bits and using it daily I can now confidently use excel as a tool to analyse data. with past experience of the steel works production side I have now increased my technical knowledge enabling me to aid the business and provide detailed feedback.

With a slow start to the programme I did not enjoy the first 6 months, but having moved areas and having a better understanding of the programme I am now enjoying it and learning new skills and also provide the business with value. I enjoy the college aspect of the programme and am learning valuable skills.

There is structure to the learning and college aspect however day to day you are free to get involved with projects and anything you may be interested in, this can be excellent at times, however sometimes the lack of structure day to day can be a hinderance to my own development.

Support from my employer is good, all the courses are paid for and additional course are also encouraged, with lecture on offer as well. Daily ion the workplace support is good, with many people able to help and further my development. You are encourage to seek out assistance for people who specialise in different areas to gain a rounded knowledge.

College has given me great support in working towards my qualifications, passed every assignment this year with distinction, thanks to the lecturers always taking the time to go through anything I don't understand in detail and more than once. computers are available in college to do any work I need to.

The first year of learning was a overall introduction to science which I didn't think was very helpful when it came down to applying it day to day in work, however this second year has been much more relevant to what I am doing in work and has enabled me to better understand the process

There are lectures often which gives you the chance to enhance your learning and network with other people in the industry. We organise our own social events within our college group and there is the Christmas do. No sports teams at Orb to my knowledge, although Tata do have a rugby team.

Yes

I would recommend a Tata steel apprenticeship as the opportunities for learning are great, there are courses available and as an apprentice you have support from people who have years of experience and are more than willing to give you time and support. If you are interested in the steel industry then the on the job learning is great.

To people applying to Tata steel I would say speak to someone who has worked in the steel industry and ask the for guidance in which apprenticeship to take, for example, mechanical, electrical, technical or supply chain as you will more likely be suited to one better than the rest depending on your interests