Trainiee Field Engineer Review

I have learnt multiple new skills. Having come from a call centre based technical diagnostics background, I've now learnt telephone network diagnostic skills, Sign, Lighting and Guarding skills, and health and safety rules and regulations. Additionally I have learnt multiple electrical circuit diagnostics and have learnt how to work at height.

I am enjoying my experience. Though the learning curve has been steep, and the support has been somewhat absent at times due to matters outside of control (heavy thunderstorms and multiple training sessions either cancelled or delayed) I am liking the role and the training that comes with it as it provides new skills.

The programme has been very well structured. However, due to extraneous circumstances outside of the company or trainer's control, coaching sessions and organised training days have had to be cancelled at short notice due to increasingly high work stacks. That being said, support is always available via either my patch lead, colleagues in the area, or via the coach on demand service.

The employer has been very supportive. As already outlined, circumstances have lead to necessary training either being drastically delayed or cancelled, but they support from colleagues, coach, patch lead, and my fellow trainees has been great. On top of that, there are various other options available to me to get support on the day, such as the coach on demand service.

Due to the nature of the job, support from the training provider is sparse. Though my specific NVQ assessor has been great and always available for support/advice, the necessary evidence required is not always possible. For example, pictures are not possible due to solo working at my jobs. However, I am aware of options to get support if necessary.

The qualification helps bolster already existing training for my role. The necessary evidence gathering helps focus on the key elements of any Health and Safety documentation as well as acting as an in-life re-review of the training I've already had. That being said, the sections regarding Microsoft Office and IT isn't specifically relevant to my role.

There are various options regarding extra-curricular activities to get involved in at my work, such as rugby clubs, team nights out etc. However, due to the regional nature of my company, these are not always relevant to me. Of key note is that each team covers a specific patch, so social gatherings are not always organised for those areas.

Yes

As a company, BT and Openreach are a great employer. Though the work at times can be very varied, and at times trying, the sense of reward at the end of the day is great. Additionally they are a very supportive company and willing to work with someone who shows the aptitude to learn the skills necessary to work.

Be open and honest about your existing skills. Show them that you are willing to knuckle down and work hard in order to get to where you need to be. Having a background in technical diagnostics is beneficial, but not necessary. Be prepared to have frustrating days. Relax, breathe, and enjoy the journey.