Associate Network Engineer Review

In my role I help to maintain the BT network infrastructure by working with engineers on the phone, and with colleagues in the office. This usually involves logging in to network equipment to diagnose faults which I then repair. I am also able to work with colleagues in the office so our knowledge is shared.

I have learnt a huge variety of skills during my time at BT so far. I have learnt a multitude of skills based around being a networks technician, such as maintenance and repair of the network, diagnosing faults and communication skills which are used when liasing with field engineers on the phone.

I enjoy it immensely. I am given plenty of room to perform my job role, and am able to take on as much extra work and projects as I desire. I currently have a few projects underway which I find highly rewarding, and they're a great way of getting my name out there.

My programme is well organised, but I do feel that it could be better. We do not often get reviews with our apprenticeship coordinator, and when they are arranged they're sometimes cancelled as they approach and we go for months with no communication. This is obviously not ideal for our personal and professional development.

I receive plenty of support from my employer in many different ways. I have a great manager who is always ready to help me to achieve any goals that I have, and to support my professional development. I also receive a considerable paycheck, which goes up each year of the apprenticeship and lets me live comfortably.

I receive some support from my training provider, however the university seems to have quite poor organisation and things sometimes seem rushed and poorly prepared. We have also had numerous changes in lecturer in the past year which has made enjoying a consistent learning experience very difficult.

I feel that my qualification gives me the knowledge I need to perform in my role as I learn how networks operate, and the different aspects of them. Building this knowledge from the ground up is key, and has been helpful in getting me to get to grips with networking basics from a very early stage.

There are many clubs that you can get involved in at BT, and different organisations to help you do so. For example, you can sail, join the gym, play sports or meet up with like-minded people to enjoy an activity. The Workplace pages also help to connect you with people who enjoy the same things that you do.

Yes

BT is a wonderful place to work, with lots of green space around the buildings so you can always enjoy some fresh air and peace and quiet. People are also very friendly and happy to help you to succeed in anything you need help with, and this means that you're never stuck on a project or job and can keep things moving steadily forward.

I would advise those applying to BT to research the company thoroughly before applying since BT is undergoing a lot of change and it would be worth showing how engaged you are by being up to date on the latest news. I would also say that when interviewing to just be honest, as the interviewer just wants to get a gauge on what you're like as a person and they aren't too worried about technical knowledge at this stage.