Higher Level Naval Architect Review

I have chosen the placement I want to go into which is non-destructive testing. On a daily basis I will be inspecting welds using liquid penetrant inspection and magnetic particle inspection. Once a job is complete I will then complete a report which will tell production if the job has passed or failed.

I have improved my communication skills by being placed in different sections in the yard. It has allowed me to interact with new people. I have also learned practical skills in non-destructive testing such as how to perform liquid penetrant inspections and magnetic particle inspection. I am currently learning about ultrasonic testing.

I thoroughly enjoy my program as it allowed me to choose which section I wanted to go into. This allowed me to learn about different areas in the company to then make an informed decision, ultimately giving me a better, more informed opinion in my career. There are also a lot of learning opportunities in the section I choose.

The program is slightly improving its structure. I originally joined for a level 5 course however in the second year they said that we were only going to be completing a level 4, however the company managed to get our year through a level 5. The EPA however is a new concept and the company don't know what the exam board expect.

I receive a lot of support in my section. There are always people who are willing to teach me new non-destructive testing methods. The support whilst learning new techniques is very helpful and they provide textbooks on the methods. This helps as I can read about the practical techniques I am learning.

The college provide a fair amount of support, however can sometimes lack giving help. This is due to the fact that they see our course as a self learning course where we have to research the objectives ourselves, meaning that we have to support ourselves. Sometimes a little more support would be helpful.

The qualification that I am earning through my training provider does not help me perform better in my role as none of the objectives in college relate to the section I am in. This does mean that when I am qualified I probably wont use the HNC I am working towards.

The section that I have joined occasionally have extra-curricular activities. The most recent one was a 5 aside football tournament. Throughout the year they host golf tournaments and other sports events. However I do not participate I just watch. There are also retirement dos to attend which allows me to meet other people in the section.

Yes

Babcock provide a very good salary with a lot of company benefits. They also provide a lot of learning opportunities which is very useful as it allows you to expand your knowledge. Babcock is also a very well known and respected company which are known for treating their employees right.

The only advice I can give to others joining Babcock is to dress presentable and be honest in your interview. I did not have to attend the team building day due to COVID however, make sure you try your hardest to work in a team and communicate as it shows you can work with others.