IT Specialist Review

by IBM

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I am an IT Specialist currently working for the Client Center in IBM Hursley. On a day to day basis I create the infrastructure behind Pre Sales customer events around UKI and Europe. Tasks can range from deploying sales demo images on laptops, servers or in virtualized environments. If I am not doing that work then I am usually helping to upgrade the current infrastructure we have or doing small housekeeping projects to keep everything in order.

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have been on 5 external training courses since I joined and each one I have used the skills learn't in my day job. I am also currently revising for exams that follow the courses so it will be easier to prove my skills when I come out of the Apprenticeship.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy the Apprenticeship scheme I am on. Coming out of College I wasn't particularly sure on what I wanted to do, I had the option to pursue a career in Football or go to University. Luckily I explored the root of an Apprenticeship and to this day it still remains as probably the best choice I have made. I work in an excellent team who are prepared to support any external studies I do.

9/10

4. How valued do you feel by IBM?

Even as an Apprentice I am still treated like everyone else in the business. I received internal blue points that can be used to buy products online for my good work. I have got plenty of feedback from people whom I have worked with.

9/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Very organized. From day one I have had all the necessary training in order to I know what I have to do for the final 2 years of my apprenticeship in order to achieve my qualification.

9/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

All the support necessary as they cover the costs. I can also come back into work and ask questions to people about what I learn't to enhance my knowledge.

9/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive plenty of support from not only my manager but my colleagues as well. I have a mentor but I usually prefer to solve issues on my own.

9/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

I have a long commute to work that costs me nearly £75 a week and that I did struggle to control in the early stages of my apprenticeship. Since recent pay rises I have

9/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

There a plenty of opportunities to do giveback at careers fairs after work and also during work. There is always an opportunity to network with colleagues at separate events. There is also a lot of internal training to go on and again a chance to meet new people

8/10

9. Would you recommend IBM to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is a fantastic company to work for. There are so many job opportunities to make the most of. I have also found that the Apprenticeship scheme will support me in any external training that I plan to do. It is a great place to develop and perfect your skills.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?

To show what an all round individual you are.