Software Engineer Review

I work as an RPA or Robotic Automation developer for one of Acceture's key clients. My role can involve discovery, design, development, testing and maintenance of robotic solutions. Typically, there is a morning stand-up to discuss the current stage we are at, followed by the work that will be undertaken that day. In downtime between projects, developers can be asked to complete additional training or backlog improvement work.

I joined with very little computer science or technical skills. Since joining the apprenticeship program, I have not only studied the regular university modules (networking, C#, Python) but also developed industry knowledge such as project management methodologies in practice, business analysis skills and admin skills. My apprenticeship has also allowed me to learn cutting edge technologies that aren't touched at university such as RPA and AI.

I thoroughly enjoy my studies and my day-to-day work when I am busy. However, being an apprentice means that occasionally I am left without work. While I can find training to do, it is not always the most enjoyable or relevant to what I want to study. In addition, some of the mandatory training can be dull.

The external training is well organised (we attend every Friday) however, sometimes modules have overlapped. This has been extremely stressful while meeting deadlines. At work. my immediate team uses online tools to track and assign work. We have frequent updates from leadership and managers however, these are not always helpful.

Accenture provides plenty of internal and external training materials to help with any personal learning we would like to complete. Everyone is willing to assist with University work when needed however, not all teams understand the additional time that is required to complete a degree in addition to a full time job. Regarding support, mental health is pushed as a key focus point however, disabilities seem like an individual issue.

Sunderland University are particularly good at giving the apprentices support in person. Friday is a non-teaching day, meaning that the apprentices have full access to facilities and staff when needed. However, the rest of the time, getting a response from the teachers is slow and not all of the assignments/materials are easy to use

The main advantage to the degree is that I have learned some additional programming languages that I could apply to my work. At university, I get the theory behind certain methodologies and technologies, while at work, I only get to see the practical applications. They complement each other really well.

Work runs plenty of exercise options outside of work however, for such a big company there are limited spaces to all. This also goes for other clubs and activities they run. The times these run can also be an issue. However, there are plenty of networking and charity events that are run.

Yes

Accenture have a huge range of roles available which means its easy to rotate your job rather than get bored doing the same thing. The apprenticeship is tried and tested to work and personally, I believe the mix of study and work make it far easier to understand a concept.

To make sure this is definitely something you want to do. Accenture is a huge company and stepping through the doors can be overwhelming. I don't think managers quite understand how difficult the change can be for some individuals. The degree is hard work and you should be prepared to lose some of you weekends and evenings.