Technical Logistics Apprentice Review

My role has varied over the last 4 years, working in various logistics areas. I have carried out project based process improvements throughout each placement. On a day-to-day basis i: - carry out basic logistics tasks e.g. operating a forklift, booking goods in, transporting parts from in-house warehouse to lineside assembly production - organizing special transport for parts requiring emergency rectification or analysis - liaising with external hauliers and suppliers to ensure the seamless delivery of components - ensuring all current/new/old components are in the correct place at the right time.

I have learnt a range full of new skills, during my first year and part time second year, I was trained in the basics of engineering. This included the practical's of Pneumatics, Hydraulics, Bench Fitting, Robotics, PLC's, Electrical Practical, Turning, Milling, Maintenance, Business Improvement Techniques, Further Mathematics, Health and Safety Principles, Material Principles, Mechanical principles & Electrical Principles During my 2nd, 3rd & 4th years I have carried out the following training - First Aid - Working at Heights - Basic Excel Training - Internal Software Training (multiple systems) - Compliance - Professional Behavior - Handling of Electrical Battery Components - Brexit Training - Ladder Training - L.L.O.P Vehicle License - Tow Truck Vehicle License I would have liked to have done more training courses during my later years, however I was also carrying out an NVQ level 3 and working.

The work I carry out varies from day to day, which I find very exciting and unpredictable. I am always faced with challenges to work on, with support from other experienced associates. I really enjoy working in a large team, there's a real sense of family within my department, most of the department look out for each other and provide help/support when required. My expectations were very different, but i have been pleasantly surprised.

Unfortunately, my apprenticeship hasn't had a clear end goal as the internal structure of job roles was rapidly changing, this meant my apprenticeship was based around having a wide knowledge of Logistics rather than specific knowledge of a logistics job role. My work based tasks are interesting and quiet often detrimental/direct to the main function of the factory. Before officially handing over any responsibilities, I will have been given correct and relevant training along with a period of time monitoring my progress. The study BTEC and Gateway sector of my apprenticeship was useful, however i found it was not very relevant to my specific department - engineering based rather than logistics. I was not overly impressed with the college training provider, as there were frequent new lecturers and very little consistent teaching. The NVQ aspect of studying helped my combine my engineering principle skills into my day-to-day logistical work.

When support has been required, i have always received it from one place or another. When i started work on site, i was given a well experienced mentor who was able to push me in the right directions and helped me gain the experience i desired. Whether i am having a difficult time at work, home, college or anywhere else, i am able to get instant support from either local management, HR, external company provided counselling/support.

As i haven't attended college since my 1st year i have very little to say, however the NVQ assessor who guided me through that aspect of my apprenticeship was brilliant. He was able to provide me immediate support and regularly met up with me to ensure i was on track and give any advicewhen required.

The qualification gave me the basics of engineering which can be applied in most job roles. I believe the qualifications taught me to analyse processes and fully understand the Health and Safety side of working within a factory. If i was able to redo my apprenticeship i would have preferred to have a final goal, rather than being uncertainty.

During the 1st year i was able to partake in various extra curricular activates such as Christmas nights out, company football games, family days and other social events. During the later years of my appreiticeship we have been faced with coronavirus so this was not possible due to health and safety concerns.

Yes

I have a super supportive working environment and along with some life long friends. The company provide many benefits such as car schemes, premium salary, employee discounts and the ability to claim for health care spending's. On top of these great benefits, i am also given high quality training in comparison to other training courses.

You have full control of your own future, if you want want to do well at BMW it is more than possible, there are great routes of progression available for those that desire it. It's not an easy route, but its very rewarding. Sell yourself! You could be the next BMW apprentice....