Aerospace Engineer Review

My day to day jobs include inspecting components to make sure they meet the very strict requirements, repairing the components if needed and completing the required paperwork. Repairs can include blending, grinding, sealing and applying adhesives. There are many other jobs in the factory including stripping and fitting if repair isn't for you.

Since I have started my apprenticeship, I have developed lots of new and existing skills. I have learnt how to blend, grind and polish different types of metal. I have also developed my existing communication skills by talking to people within the factory to complete certain jobs but also when completing STEM events where I share my experiences with students at schools or careers fairs.

I thoroughly enjoy the apprenticeship program. It has given my the opportunity to learn with my hands, which I would not have got going through VI form and Uni. It has made me much more confident to take on tasks both in work doing the job, and out of work doing DIY jobs around the house or working on my cars.

The program is very well structured. The program structure has been used for multiple years and has been tried and tested. The progression from college working through the factory and into your final sections allows you to gain the knowledge and skills you need before settling down to learn your job.

Throughout the program, I have received a lot of support from my employer. Whenever I have any questions about my progress or the career, I have always been made to feel comfortable to pop up to the office and have a chat. The program is constantly improving for future years,

I receive a great amount of support from my training provider through the duration of my apprenticeship. During the first year I could speak to any of the tutors on a daily basis if I needed help or guidance, but they are all still very happy to help now that I have left college.

The training provided by my training provider has been critical in progressing in my role. If I did not complete the training courses at college, I would not be in the position to begin working in the factory. The knowledge of how a Gas Turbine Engine works is extremely important before entering the second year of the apprenticeship.

There are numerous opportunities available to participate in STEM activities throughout the apprenticeship. These activities are not only improving your own skills and knowledge, but also sharing what you know with others and allowing them the opportunity to get involved and learn about STEM jobs that they may not have known about or been interested in otherwise.

Yes

The apprenticeship that GE offers is unlike any other on the market. At the end of the apprenticeship, not only are you finishing with your qualifications, but also an apprenticeship with a $multimillion global company, which will make getting a job with any engineering company in the future much easier - not to mention the high possibility of getting a job at GE Aerospace at the end!

Make sure that you do your research into the business and gas turbine engines before applying. The process is long and sometimes challenging, and if you do not get through the first time - do not be put off applying again. It took me 3 years to get into the apprenticeship.