Engineering Degree Apprentice Review

The Engineering Degree Apprenticeship is structured to provide engineering work experience in a variety of departments and disciplines, alongside completing a BEng in Electronic and Computer Engineering. The role involves completing time critical tasks for onsite aviation projects to gain invaluable skills and knowledge that can be used in future careers. The role also includes one day a week at university, studying the degree course part-time, over the 5 years. Professional Development is also structured into the role, to improve an individual's soft skills and abilities. This can involve leading STEM orientated events or volunteering at a school's career fair.

Throughout the apprenticeship, I have developed technical, soft and life skills, allowing me to develop as an engineer, but also progress outside of work. My knowledge of hardware, software and systems engineering has grown over the time of the apprenticeship, as I have rotated around different teams and departments. I have improved my presentation skills by taking opportunities to share my apprenticeship experience to school students looking to follow the same career path. My communication skills have developed, giving me the confidence to network with fellow employees at GE to support with engineering tasks.

Overall, the apprenticeship scheme has been an enjoyable life experience. Managing project work, degree study and additional apprenticeship responsibilities can be stressful and difficult to manage, but the support network at GE is there to help when things get too much. I have learnt a huge amount during the scheme, all of which I can use in the future.

The structure of the scheme has developed throughout the time I have been a part of the apprenticeship, taking feedback from apprentices to improve the management and support for all individuals. Each year has key milestones to achieve and regular meetings with your line manager allow you to track your progress and areas for improvement.

GE have a vast support network that can be used to assist with project work, university assignments or personal development. The number of apprentices can mean contact time with managers is limited, but help is always available when in need. GE has a number of guidance networks to assist with work and home related problems.

The support provided by the university can be limited, as the contact time is condensed to one day a week. Lecturers and tutors are available to help, however many apprentices use individuals at GE to support instead. GE and UWE are working to improve support provided when completing the degree aspect of the apprenticeship.

Depending on your role at work, the knowledge gained from studying at university can assist with technical tasks provided in an aviation project environment. The project based modules help to develop team work and communication skills for use in the workplace. The knowledge learnt at university provides a good baseline, but does not necessarily apply directly to a role at GE.

The apprenticeship provides a huge number of volunteering opportunities to get involved with, organise or manage. These include running STEM events at school, attending airshows representing GE, or promoting the company at Careers fairs. GE also has a number of sports team and try to get involved in local community events.

Yes

The apprenticeship allows you to gain a full-funded degree, whilst gaining worthwhile work experience in a world renown company. GE aim to develop each apprentice into all-rounded engineer, allowing each individual to choose their career path based on their interests and skills. An engineering degree apprenticeship is an alternative to university, but you gain so much more than just academic knowledge.

Make sure to research the role thoroughly before applying, to ensure the area of engineering and structure is right for you. The assessment days are an ideal time to show your true potential and prove you are suitable for the scheme - do your research on GE as a company, and just be yourself.