Electrical Design Apprentice Review

My day to day role can vary based on what project I am working on and what department I'm in. Generally, as an electrical design apprentice I work on drawings such as Block Cable Diagrams, Schematics and General Arrangements using a CAD software package called AutoCAD which specialises in 2D design.

Through working a major project, creating new drawings and modifying exiting ones I have definitely learnt new skills such as using new software packages such as Vault and Revit. I have also developed some existing skills such as working with AutoCAD as I have become more familiar with it and used some new commands and tools.

I do enjoy the work I am currently doing as I am working with the installation team which involves using the 3D model of the project on Revit giving me a better understanding of what all the equipment looks like and how it interacts with everything else. Its important to take charge of your apprenticeship and speak to relevant people about to a new project or department if you aren't enjoying the work you're doing.

When I started the apprenticeship scheme was in a transition faze as all of us new apprentices were put onto new standards which changed the way the scheme worked. I am in my third year and it has got a lot better, especially for the new apprentices starting each year as its a lot more organised with what work people will be doing, with what department and when.

We receive all the support we need whether it be with the work we're doing or any other problems we may have such as personal issues. When it comes to work, every apprentice is assigned a Line manager, mentor and a Placement Leader. All these people are very helpful when we have any problems.

During the first year of the apprenticeship we got a lot of support from them as were there full time. The second year we were on day release to college once a week and received all the support we needed. Now we see our 'Career Development Advisor' quite regularly and we can ask her any questions we have about the qualifications then and anytime through email.

My Training was more tailored to a mechanical apprentice however the company has since changed college provider and now the roles are more suited to the roles we have. The training I received using AutoCAD helped when it came to my role as that is the most common piece of software I use.

There are some social activities organised through the company. We usually receive invited through email. The same happens with professional networking events. These give us the opportunity to expand our knowledge on particular topics and to network with other people in the company. A quite regular event are 'Lunch and Learns' which involve a supplier we work with coming in to talk about their company and how we work with them.

Yes

We are given great opportunities to work on some really interesting and important projects with a lot of people that we can learn a lot from. There is a lot of support available to the apprentices in the company and I feel it is a better alternative to going to university as we get paid whilst we're learning.

Take control of your scheme and don't be afraid to ask for help. Take as many opportunities that come your way as possible as it is a great chance to work with new people in a new environment which you may want to peruse later in your career. Work hard.