Electrical Engineering Higher Apprentice Review

My role is an electrical engineering higher apprentice. I have shadowed senior engineers throughout my time so far. Some examples of things I do include attending daily morning meetings, creating orders for new parts and components, fault finding on various applications such as PLCs and I have worked alongside project engineers to introduce an exciting new process which has saved a vast amount of money for the company.

Prior to my time as a higher apprentice, I had little to no experience in the field of electrical engineering. However, I was made to feel extremely comfortable in my new working environment and have developed a number of new skills. I have learnt how to manage a project, communicate with external companies over the phone, fault find and work on equipment such as instrumentation and drives. These are but a few examples.

I am currently really enjoying my programme but this is mainly down to the people that I work with. Being made to feel so welcome had a massive positive impact on me. I have also attended a number of courses which have further helped me to develop. Overall, I am very happy with how my programme is going.

My training plan is quite well structured, with modules given to us to work towards and complete within two years. However, if I were to change one thing about my programme, I would have liked to have had more organisation in terms of carrying out reviews with my competence development managers.

I receive a significant amount of support from my employer. Whenever I have a query, regardless of the subject, a person will come to help and will assist me with my issue. I have received a lot of support throughout my training with the other engineers inside and outside of my department.

My training provider has been excellent. They have provided all the support that I need to reach my goals. I have regular reviews with my assessor to discuss how my college work has been going and where I hope to be in the future. All college lecturers have been extremely helpful and supportive.

I believe the qualifications I am working towards have given me a good base layer of knowledge to build on throughout my career. Having no electrical experience, the qualifications have helped boost me up to a good level to understand and be competent in my role. Overall, I believe the qualifications have massively improved my performance in my role.

Yes, I think there are a variety of extra-curricular activities that are available outside of work. An example being the TATA Steel rugby team which is made up of employees throughout the company. An activity such as this provides good team-bonding and builds stronger relationships throughout the whole of the company.

Yes

I think TATA Steel is a great company to work for. In the time that I have been here, the support I have received has been great. Each person I work with has welcomed me and provided me with all the assistance I need to succeed and excel in my role.

The advice I would give to individuals looking to apply for a role in TATA Steel is to be yourself. TATA Steel is one of the best companies to further your career and set you on the right path to success. I feel as though it is one of the best decisions I have made.