Manufacturing Engineer Review

I am a year one apprentice completing a manufacturing engineer degree apprenticeship for BMW Hams Hall. Currently, myself and the other six year one apprentices attend a local college five days a week, with one day focusing on the degree (classroom based), and the remaining four on practical training. Our degree work consists of assignments and exams, of varying topics and difficulty, such as mathematics in engineering, business, materials and processes, and quality and reliability; to name a few. These are all manageable, provided you keep on top of them. The lower level practical training focusses more on working with tools and machinery such as lathes, mills, bench work, maintenance, and fluid power.

Yes, we cover a very diverse number of topics and learn many new skills and techniques, particularly during the practical days. Although I had prior experience, this apprenticeship has taught me to do things correctly, along with the details and fundamentals behind it.

So far during my apprenticeship I have felt comfortable, encouraged and supported. Although we have not yet worked at the plant, my time spent with the other apprentices and members of staff has been nothing but positive and motivating. I personally believe this is an incredible opportunity to learn a range of interesting new things, alongside friends, whilst being paid. It is ultimately work, and wont always be easy or straightforward, but definitely enjoyable with the correct attitude and mindset.

Overall, our apprenticeship is organised and well structured. BMW and more specifically our manager is supportive and communicative, with all steps from the initial application/interview process, to our futures at the plant being planned out and well organised. However, our training provider and the college we attend could do with improvement. Most of the time we follow the previous week, which works okay. But when timetables change, or problems arise, our day can get a bit messy. Things at the college are often taken on a temporary, immediate basis, instead of being planned in advance.

We are able to contact our manager at any time with problems we may have. He is always understanding and supportive. HR and other departments within the company (such as the car scheme) have also always been very quick and helpful in resolving queries.

Our lecturers have always been supportive and helpful at college. They are knowledgeable in their field and usually willing to answer questions and assist when needed. We also complete regular reviews to summarise progress, which can be seen by our employer.

Our training has been very varied and all-encompassing which doesn't restrict us and enables a range of job roles. This is important as a specific role is not chosen for you, you instead flow into an available place which suits your strengths and will be most beneficial for the company. I feel my qualifications will provide solid background knowledge for my career.

Aside from work related events, I am unaware of extra-curricular activities such as sport (which may partly be due to covid). Unofficially however, we arrange things between ourselves, such as playing football at a local park.

Yes

It is a well-established, supportive company, where I enjoy my job.

Spend time on your CV and cover letter, prepare for the interview, aim to impress. Remember that qualities and behaviors are just as important as skills and experience. Honesty, enthusiasm, and professionalism all go a long way - but most importantly, try your best!