Assistant Technician Review

I work alongside the building services engineers to develop designs and generate drawings and information using BIM softwares such as Revit and AutoCAD. I undertake general technician duties and also do some engineering design tasks. I As an apprentice i also have a role to ensure i complete my university degree which i do on a part time basis.

I have been able to develop my knowledge of building services engineering through working with engineers. I have learnt how to correctly and efficiently use BIM softwares to develop designs through the RIBA stages, and provide contractors, clients and architects etc with coherent models and drawings. I also have developed communication skills that are required.

I do enjoy my job, i work with a lovely group of people who are happy to help whenever needed. I get a lot of support from the team. I sometimes the heavy workload from university and the workload from work hard to manage especially with the nature of the course.

As the programme is relatively new, there have been a few ups and downs in the programme structure especially on the universities part. However generally issues are sorted quickly and the course runs smooth. All involved offer a lot of support to ensure we are happy with the course and content.

My employer makes an effort to ensure we have training mentors to assist us with any issues we may have and keep us on track with training. We are given extra study days around exams which is helpful. Overall they are happy to support us with any concerns and issues we have

Coventry, like work, are willing to spend extra time to make sure we are content with the course and the module information. They are happy to put on extra training sessions around exams and organise one to one meetings in cases where we are struggling. It would be nice if they spoke with our employer face to face more.

At the minute i am not learning new information than learnt in my level 3, therefore i think as i get further into the coventry course i will begin to develop more academic information that can be applied efficiently at work. I think it is important that work recognise we still need engineering practice.

I always help with the work experience students during summer, making sure they have enough information to make an informed decision on their future career and enjoy their week with us. I attend CIBSE accredited events in line with my engtech professional qualification as these events are good for networking with manufacturers and other consultancies.

Yes

I think arup provides a multitude of opportunities from design work, to apprenticeships to working with a nice friendly team that will always go out of their way to help you whenever you need it. Arup Nottingham is a kind and friendly place to work and Arup as a company is reknown for designing innovative buildings.

Make sure you understand the apprenticeship course extent and are fully dedicated to work and studies as time management in this sense is vital. Make sure you ask as many questions as you need to fully understand what the job role involves and dont worry about it - we all ask stupid questions but its better to ask!!