Maintenance engineer apprentice Review

Every 3-4 weeks we complete different rotations (electrical, welding, turning, milling etc.) For example, previously I spent 4 weeks learning about Turning and how to use a lathe and recently I have just started Mechanical Maintenance. Learning different hand skills and problem solving skills will be essential for when I graduate from my apprenticeship and start working full time as a maintenance engineer technician.

Yes, since working here I have developed and learnt a vast amount of valuable skills. This includes how to weld, how to use a lathe, soldering and de-soldering etc. Many of the equipment we use, I wouldn't have used in school or college. The skills I am learning now, will help me in the future with my job.

I look forward to working everyday. Learning new skills and using new equipment excites me and makes me want to learn more. It is a really warm environment with friendly staff and peers. Often I learn something new everyday and everyday seems to be different. I love the practical side of the apprenticeship and also know that to learn and increase my knowledge I have to do the theory side.

I believe the programme is very well organised. College days are always on a Monday and the workshop days are always Tuesday- Friday. Like previously mentioned, every 3-4 weeks we start and finish a new rotation, this includes welding, turning, milling, electronics etc. In addition, there is also always a help support if required.

I believe I get more than enough support from my employer. Due to COVID-19, we had to work from home for a couple of months and during this time my employer regularly sent emails, which had links to different charities that specialized in helping with mental health and support. From a personal point of view, I know i can always ask for guidance or ask a question if I need any help.

Similar to the previous question, I believe if I ever need to request additional support if needed that it will be available. Whether the support is for work, mental health or college assignments I know that many of the team are willing to help. If I needed help when working towards my qualifications I would not be hesitant to ask.

I believe the qualification will help me perform better in my role, due to the fact that the more I learn and expand my knowledge, the better. My aim is to complete the apprenticeship and then specialize in one subject, so learning a wide range of things can help me complete that.

Despite being in a large facility, the amount of extra-curricular activities are poor. There is an on-site gym which is popular but apart from that it is very limited. However, it is very understandable due to the circumstances. Over the last year, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many things to shut or be cancelled. Therefore, things like 5-a-side football was not available, a Christmas party would've had to been cancelled and so on.

Yes

I would strongly recommend BMW Group apprenticeship to anyone. This is because the vast amount of skills and knowledge I have gained during this first year is huge. It is a very good apprenticeship and the environment is very warm and welcoming. The apprenticeship allows me to use high-tech / expensive equipment I would never have been able to use at either college or school.

My advice would to be confident, try to make friends as soon as possible and to focus on your assignments and quality of work. The more you learn now, the easier it will be for you in the future when working on-site. Don't be hesitant to ask questions to help you understand a subject further.