Assistant Technician (Software Developer) Review

I am a software developer/engineer, I take ideas engineers have created, for example to automate a part of their design process, and created a program that meets their needs. My day to-day involves ~2 hours of project based meetings and the rest scripting the features discussed. I spend 1-day a week at university. I study 2 modulus over 6 hours.

I have learnt a range of new skills since starting my apprenticeship. From work I have learnt from being assigned tasks that require me to learn new practical skills independently. From university, I learnt in a more structured manner about the theory behind the work I am doing. The combination of both methods is highly effective.

The program is highly enjoyable, from the start I was involved in very interesting projects. The team I work with is great they have a good range of skill and are willing to help out. The company culture is friendly and welcoming. The program exceeds my expectations due to amount of interesting projects and learning I do.

Induction - The induction was great and informative, the early careers team set up a website containing videos and blogs. A great introduction to the program. Training (In-Work) - You can agree training with you manager flexibly and I am made aware of training opportunities Studying (Uni) - Most studying is done in your spare time but you can agree to have extra study time coming up to deadlines/exams. Overall the program is well structured

Manager - I work closely with my manager and am supported if I require it. If they cannot help, they know somebody who can. Mentor - My mentor keeps close contact with the university, ensuring I am meeting all the requirements for the apprenticeship. This helps greatly. Support and Guidance - There is a lot of support and guidance. Everyone is willing to share their knowledge on a topic. I receive all the support I need.

Tutor - My tutor provides a lot of support and ensures everything is up-to-date with the university and keeps me informed. Support and Guidance - Everyone is supportive and wants to see you achieve your goals. Overall, I enjoy the experience at uni. It is great to learn the theory behind what I am doing at working.

So far the work I have been doing at uni has not directly applied to work. However, learning the theory being what I am doing is interesting and has allowed me to pick up new skills quicker than before. Going forward, I am likely to directly apply what I learn at work.

The community is great, I have taken part in may social events online and now in person. Unfortunately, a lot of extra-curricular activities have been put on hold due to covid, but there has been good variety of online replacements. Other than social events there are opportunities, such as reduced gym membership.

Yes

It is a great place to work with a welcoming environment to work in, where knowledge is widely shared. Since I joined, I have learnt more than I hoped and have been involved in great projects. There are lots of great opportunities to get involved in, inside and outside of work.

When applying to Arup, ensure you are passionate about your work, open to learn from others and willing to share you knowledge to others. Otherwise, Arup is a very diverse and inclusive firm that encourage a 'bring yourself to work' attitude to ensure you can do your best work as a result.