Body Design Engineer Degree Apprentice Review

In my day to day role I work in Body engineering creating Robust and efficient Computer Aided Design (CAD) models which are generally generic but include all engineering science. These robust CAD generic tool sets are used by my colleagues in other departments and job roles to create the components in the correct space and conditions.

During my time on my apprenticeship I have learnt multiple new skills. The skills to understand and use Computer Aided Design (CAD) software called Catia V5 as well as the Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) capabilities in V5 and Catia V6. I have also learnt about manufacturing rules and regulations which drive the engineering science.

I really enjoy the programme I am taking part in. I am constantly working on developing my CAD software skills and Engineering Knowledge. I enjoy my job role because developing CAD tool sets is the main focus and this is what I enjoy most about design engineering. My job role is very suited to myself and skills.

The Jaguar Land Rover apprentice programme is well structured and ensures as an apprentice you gain all the required skills, this involves attending Warwick Trident college during your first and second year before moving onto Warwick Uni. This is unfortunately the down side to the apprenticeship structure and organisation; In comparison to the JLR apprentice team on site the college is poorly organised. This can affect the ability to enjoy the time spent at the training provider. I would rate the JLR Experience highly but the experience provided at the training providers less.

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) supports their apprentices throughout the programme. As an apprentice I am well supported by my Work Based Learning Manager (WBLM) and Line / Department manager. I can raise any issues with either of these and know i can confidentially talk to them if i need too. HR also support employees where required. The WBLM ' s support apprentices in raising issues with the training provider and ensure a resolution is found. I am also very well supported with my dyslexia and dyspraxia.

As previously mentioned the support from the Training providers is lacking in comparison to that provided by JLR. Their is some issues with the support provided with a selection of the teaching staff at Warwickshire College, these issues have been raised my multiple apprentices. These seemed to be passed off and ignored, therefore with the support of Work Based Learning and Line managers these were further raised. After this the college addressed the issues.

In my personal opinion 60 percent of the work and qualifications taken through the training provider (Trident College) help me better perform my job role, these subjects include Materials and manufacturing, Engineering maths and science, CAD and CAE There is interesting subjects undertaken at the provider however I don't feel that they directly help me to better perform in my role. I understand that the subjects help to give a better base for the subjects which will be taken at Warwick Uni during Yr 3-6

There is extra-curricular activities available that can b undertaken however personally I do not take part in any of the activities that are available, as I have a busy schedule during and after work. I socialize and take part with non work related extra curricular activities with my colleagues including squash and the gym.

Yes

The working environment is very modern and a lovely place to work. The work place is professional however there is a culture of trust, I therefore feel very comfortable and look forward to coming to work. There is often interesting things to see around the office including events, competitor vehicles and our own new vehicles.

Be yourself ! This is the best advice I was given and I very thankful for it. The application process and assessment center is aimed to assess how well you will fit in to the company. It also explores how you work in team and what sort of team player you are. The recruiters prefer to be shown rather than told what you are like, therefore by being yourself you will naturally shine your own light by taking about your experiences, they will see this. So BE YOURSELF!