Apprentice Engineer Review

I work with offline and online engineers, where I attend to call-outs for line breakdowns and I am also involved with making improvements to the machines and engineering projects (such as installation/ modification of new machinery, and line shut down maintenance weeks). As engineers our job is to ensure the factory lines/ processes are running as smooth and efficiently as possible.

Prior to starting my apprenticeship I had no real experience in the engineering world. Spending a year at IPS technical college allowed me to build a foundation of basic skills (including electrical and mechanical) which I have now been able to develop and put into practice in real world scenarios.

I am enjoying my programme so far in that there are many avenues and opportunities to develop your skills and learn new skills due to the wide range of tasks that I tackle. Due to the nature of attending breakdowns and being involved with improvement projects, no two days are the same.

First year at IPS is an organised structure where you will complete a set of modules that tackle different areas of engineering (such as wiring and milling), once on site however, I have found there to be somewhat lack of a structure to my training and progression, learning opportunities are always present, but there is set structure to the way you should be spending your days, and initially, who you should be spending it with. There is also a lack of reviews to ensure you’re progressing well or happy with your time on site.

Employer has provided me with good amounts of support. After going through a tough spout of mental health, my employer went above in ensuring that I get the help I need and that I get back on track. Only complaint I have with support is that as mentioned, there is a lack of review meetings to discuss your progress on site and your feelings towards your time spent there.

My training provider provides me with good levels of support in ensuring I stay on track with both my HNC and NVQ work. In my previous practical training year at IPS, I was given huge levels of support as I was going straight into my second year of BTEC ( having completed my first year at another college) and starting my practical journey in the engineering industry.

Completing the first practical training year at IPS gave me a good foundation of practical knowledge and skills that I have been able to develop and build upon since spending time on site at work. Completing theory based work through the BTEC and HNC also allows for better understanding of different concepts that may be encountered when working.

There are extra curricular activities available to get involved with at work such as sporting activities (i.e football, golf) and social activities such as summer bbqs and event celebrations. Often events will take place with the intentions of assisting charities. Despite the opportunities available, I dont find myself getting involved with them very often.

Yes

It is a decent environment to work in with plenty of opportunities to develop skills or learn new ones as long as you seek them out. With the lack of structure, you need to be able to take on your own initiative and act in certain areas, however, this can also lead to good development in your working skills.

I would say ask plenty of questions as this is the best way to become involved and ensure you are understanding the activities being completed around you. Additionally, you need to be prepared to act on your own initiative and do what you think is best for not only company but also your own learning and development.