Apprentice Engineer Review

As an apprentice my role is to attend college on the scheduled days to further my education and obtain qualifications, whilst learning about the role of a Gatwick engineer through on the job training. I am able to work with the technicians at Gatwick and learn from their experiences.

I have been able to further develop pre-existing skills as well as learn new ones so far in my apprenticeship. I have made progress with increasing my proficiency with welding and CAD design, as well as my knowledge in maths and health & safety. I have also learnt new skills in the way of electrical technology, as well as hand tool and power tool proficiency.

I am really enjoying the apprenticeship so far. My main enjoyment stems from the learning and experience I am able to gain from being in the working environment. There is plenty of opportunity to learn new skills and practice what you have already learnt. As the majority of engineers at Gatwick were previously apprentices, they understand what you are going through and need to achieve, so they are a massive help.

The apprenticeship is very well organised and structured whilst at work. We are informed ahead of time where we will be, what is planned, and what is expected of us as apprentices. Some work could be done on the college end, as the level of structure/organisation is not quite to the same level as what is experienced at work.

Since starting the apprenticeship I have received lots of support from my employer. This can be in the form of assistance with my studies, offering advice and help with any questions I have with my day to day employment, all the way to smaller things such as how to book time off. I haven't once had a question or concern of mine go ignored.

The college is good at providing support when needed. The majority of the time assignments are completed outside of college hours after having learnt the necessary information in class. If there is anything which is not understood support can be gained either in lesson, or by emailing tutors.

The qualifications I will be receiving are related very closely with the work I will be carrying out at Gatwick. I am currently learning about three phase theory, which is very useful as there is a large amount of assets at Gatwick which operate using three phase power. I am also learning about PLC (Programmable logic controllers), electrical installations, as well as many forms of mechanical principles.

Gatwick does offer extra curricular activities in a variety of different ways. There are networking events which are usually as part of the IET which are able to be attended either in person or virtually, opportunities to use our two days of paid charity work per year, as well as small events held for team building within the workplace.

Yes

I believe that as an apprenticeship programme, there are good opportunities to gain great qualifications whilst getting real on the job experiences and training. The pay is very good, and there is plenty of support from the employer when it comes to additional learning or any issues you may have during your time as an apprentice. I was recommended the apprenticeship by a friend, and I would also recommend it to anyone else.

Although an apprenticeship is used for learning, it is best to have examples as to why you would like to pursue a career in engineering. Whether it is something you have made/worked on, or simply a TV programme you enjoy watching that has sparked your interest. Gatwick look for outgoing individuals which have a passion for the job role, and strive to do their best.