Higher Manufacturing Apprentice Review

My role is a trainee blast furnace process operator, I communicate on plant issues to the service crew and works to find solutions in a timely manner and to external departments regarding ongoing and upcoming issues. As an operator it is essential to constantly monitor the running of many different systems that contribute to running a blast furnace.

I have completed my Advanced Manufacturing Operations level 4 qualification and am now working towards a degree in this field. This qualification includes working on group projects with my peers on relevant processes at Tata Steel, I have also learned how to use the engineering software Mat labs, quality and business improvement, materials and processing, study skills, plant operations and performance. I am currently studying Management Innovation, Sustainability and Manufacturing, Design & Technology and I am working on NVQ (Level 4).

I enjoy being able to link my practical experience that I experience in work, with my shift allowing me to have responsibility and take initiative even though I am an apprentice, I have been offered many opportunities and it is clear these opportunities will continue even when I complete my apprenticeship. I am also able to link parts of my qualification to the workplace, hopefully to contribute to positive change in my future career.

The induction was very good, consisting of a look into health and safety, different processes, speeches from high managers who make a difference in the industry. I have been offered lots of training when I joined a team on shifts and had support off managers with work at Tata, my NVQ and University studies. As an apprentice I feel like I was offered an opportunity to join the team and contribute with lots of support.

My shifts teams have all offered me a lot of support in all aspects of studying, supporting me to learn plant and process operations, answering all of my questions. I never feel like just an apprentice and always feel part of the team. It was made clear from the start if I have any problems or concerns who I can go to.

I have regular meeting with my NVQ assessor to make sure I am on track and do not get to overwhelmed with uni work, nvq and doing my job. My university tutors are always there via email or teams to answer questions as it has been considerably harder the past year studying at university as all of the lessons have been online and not face to face.

I am able to assess different situations using the techniques I have learned at university, understand different management techniques, problem solving, how processes work, understanding materials. As well as having the experience in work, being exposed to real life situations and studying the theory of manufacturing prepares you to overcome issues.

We were offered lots of extra curriculum activities at the start of the apprenticeship, however, COVID has not made it possible for all of these to take place. I did manage to take part in a workshop with primary schools in the Port Talbot area to try and encourage girls into STEM subjects which went really well. Tata Steel does a lot of charity events and works with the local community.

Yes

Many opportunities to better yourself as a person in and outside of work. They offer a wide range of support to suit your needs and encourage you to do well in your career. You are able to experience things in a working environment you would not be able to find in other work places.

Be open to any opportunity that you may be offered, take every bit of support that you can. Go into it with an open mind and take everything in as Tata Steel is a great place to work especially if you can make the most out of everything you experience.