Control and Instrumentation Apprentice Review

My role as a C&I Engineer is to build and maintain equipment used for the measure and control of large systems. As an apprentice, my current day-to-day work entails the construction and fault-finding of: circuits; wired systems; and digital Programmable Logic Controllers. In addition to this, I keep track of the work that I have done and the criteria I have met through written logs and documentation of each project.

I have developed new understandings of a variety of mechanical and electrical systems throughout my work with AWE and Reading College, including: combustion engines; transformers; motors among others. These have allowed me to improve my practical skills in working with these so I know how to handle them, as well as having improved my understanding of them theoretically to help me develop skills of reasoning and logic.

I enjoy my programme to a large extent. Not only are the other apprentices very welcoming and friendly, but the line managers are very knowledgeable and helpful. There is a good sense of cohesion in the team, and a good sense of direction in the apprenticeship - helping me decide what kind of engineer I want to be.

There have been set-backs for sure. In a number of instances, there has been miscommunication throughout the AWE leading to some apprentices being left behind or with insufficient knowledge. For the most part, the apprenticeship is running smoothly - there is clear progression; there are incentives being devised and improvements being made constantly.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. Going into an apprenticeship as complex as this requires all the support possible for a new starter. So far, AWE has helped me develop in work to a more competent employee through various training programmes and projects, but also has supported my development socially through the 'Team Challenge' which helped me develop skills as a leader and also socially.

The college support scheme is varied from person to person, for the most part it has been difficult to get support due to our high teacher turn-over. There are some instance where pupils have felt bullied, singled out, or ignored by teachers, myself included, but there have - alternatively - been a number of very good teachers who will go the extra mile to help. Overall, support has been inconsistent but mostly sufficient

Theory work is as important as practical work, maybe more so. This makes the qualification provided by the training provider very important when talking about and engineering role - C&I especially. I feel that it has helped me create the foundations of my understanding to do my job and also has given me a broader idea of the field I am working in.

There are a variety of extra-curricular activities to get involved with at work, most of which are available to any employee. I, myself, have taken part in the annual "Team Challenge" as well as the "Charity Fun Run", I also know there are numerous sporting clubs; recreational activities like Airsofting; and several charity drives which are supported by AWE.

Yes

I would recommend AWE as it is one of the best available apprenticeships providing a great educational platform and environment to work in, as well as a brilliant social environment in which I have seen a number of people develop in for the best. In addition, the company takes good care of its employees and provides plenty of room for growth.

The advice I would give is to keep your options open and get involved with as much as you can. The business is large and the site covers hundreds of acres with thousands of people operating in it - each one developing as part of the company, and all of which can provide insight as to what each role in the business is like. Considering all the options available to you will give you the best chance to find something you are passionate about.