Aircraft Maintenance Technician Apprentice Review

During the first year, it is regular college attending lessons to complete exams and become a CAA A Licensed Engineer and NVQ level two with aircraft maintenance related practical activities. The subsequent years of the apprenticeship, involve being on rotational placements at different Boeing customer bases like RAF Odiham, London Gatwick, RAF Brize Norton, performing both base and line maintenance activities within the extent of your authority under excellent supervision and training. Apprentices get stuck into anything and everything when on we are on our placements, that's what so great about the job!

I have developed many new hand skills when working in the workshop in my first year, using different tools being able to manufacture products based on engineering drawings and dimensions is something I enjoy being taught and having learnt. With the hybrid approach that is being taken, where we learn the theory in class and apply the theory in practical scenarios I have noticed myself starting to thinking more as an engineering being curious about problems and having a keen eye for detail.

I highly enjoy the programme because it put me out of my comfort zone. Having to relocate and move in with other people who are all unique in their own ways made me have to adapt and learn new things in order to make the best of the situation. After a while, the group bonds together which means everyone is very supportive and there is always a sense of involvement within such a good team. The first year is difficult but the more effort you put in during the first year, the easier your later years become.

The structure of the programme is very organised and thought out by our managers. There is always a daily plan of what needs to be done for the day, how it will be done, etc. The company is always looking to expand by improving their experiences and the apprenticeship programme has done just that, with multiple changes which are made with the interests of the apprentices at heart.

There is lots of support and guidance provided from the employer. Our dedicated line manager always makes time for the apprentices be it night or day and our tutors are also always present whenever we need them in college. There is also a wealth of employee benefits that can be accessed to receive support and guidance for any issues or concerns.

The quality of teaching is fantastic, they couldn't have chosen a better college for the delivery of the qualifications. Our tutors are always in constant contact about arrangements on any support or feedback we may need. Frequent 1 to 1s where necessary and group discussions to understand how to best meet the needs of the group.

The qualification is perfect for the tasks which will be required of us when we move onto 'On-job-training'. The qualifications also build our foundations to help us succeed as future engineers because we are taught everything to the highest standards. Lastly, the criteria we meet for our assessments and tasks we complete are very well simulated for the industry which means we are not usually thrown into the deep end when we are on our placements.

There are many different activities available to us. We get given opportunities emailed to us and chances to attend meetings, events, that allow us to network with others in the industry and share our voices to inspire others to pursue apprenticeships. We are given the chance to become STEM ambassadors to host events and shows in order to advertise apprenticeships.

Yes

The company culture is brilliant. As an employee there is always a positive atmosphere in the workplace. If there is ever a need to discuss things then managers and seniors do not shy away from willing to talk. The company itself always supports its employees through a variety of benefits and discount programes that look after you and your family.

The number one tip would be that you need to display a willingness to learn and to improve yourself. The company wants every employee to succeed in line with their values and employees are offered all the opportunities needed in order to excel their careers and improve their skillset. The industry in which the company operates in requires constant adaptability and change so you should also be willing to learn new things and be adaptable in situations.