Level 6 Engineering Technician Review

Business management, Finance forecasting, Data analysis, Steering production, cycle time analysis. every 3 months i change departments and my role adapts to what I can support / learn best.

Yes I have learned how to use different software for CAD, AR and day to day reporting such as PowerBi, excel and Think cell and the systems to pull data / BMWs systems. Confidence, drive, healthy work ethics, teamwork and work life balance.

The program can be challenging and requires a lot of drive, if you are in an engineering role, year 2&3 will be your department rotations this has been my highlight of the apprenticeship it is a great experience. unfortunately the academic degree side has been incredibly disappointing and delivered to a poor standard and quality.

Engineering and maintenance rolls require 1 year in the training school where they prepare you for your placements and job, however none of the preparation has been required for my roll. Teaching was delivered to a poor standard, students where demotivated and frustrated as we complained but only now is action taking place (2 years later).

The support systems have improved since I joined, however there is a lack of communication between the college and BMW regarding support, you have to be vocal if you want support as it isn't always given to you. BMW training school is strict, there are frustrating rules but in your placement it is very different you are given more trust and responsibility.

It is a shame I feel I have wasted 2 years of learning due to poor teaching, I have self taught most module's through google and YouTube videos. I do not feel I have earned my qualification in the traditional way as our teacher has voiced they only care for how the work looks not its content. However I have worked hard myself. Students have been complaining for 2 years and action is taking place now that we are moving which is frustrating.

Topics I have covered in my qualification such as quality systems have come up in my placement work however I often haven't been taught it just recognize the word. I have yet to use the skills I learnt in the workshop training from the first year but it will be very different depending on your roll.

Yes, Charity champions and Newsletter team, they are great for networking and learning value skills, I recommend them if you join. I have learnt lots of valuable skills and made friends with different years as unfortunately there aren't many chances to meet the other years but that is improving.

Yes

The work experience you gain is invaluable, I love the structure of the 3 month department rotations for 2 years, you gain a variety of skills. I cannot fault the BMW working structure However, I do warn about the engineering academic side is servilely lacking in quality but the placements are worth the pain from the poor teaching and their are great opportunities available if you put the work in.

Do not be put off by the first year (Engineers), it is said to be the hardest year and if you aren't enjoying persevere to the second year as it is a complete change and worth it. The job can be challenging, it is very different to university, but you learn so much and it benefits your career immensely.