IM&T Business Trainee Review

I am an IM&T (Information Management & Technology) Business Trainee. This involves moving around the business and completing different placements every two to six months. I am currently in a placement with Technical Architecture. I have previously completed placements with the Nuclear Safety and Regulation Department (NSRD), the Chief Information Officer (CIO), Commercial, Project Management, the Project Management Office (PMO), Governance, Information Architecture and Business Analysis.

I have learnt lots of new technical skills, including the use of specialist software. I have also developed my existing interpersonal skills and am now much more confident and mature in my behaviours.

The enjoyment of the programme is largely dependant on which placement I am in. I have had placements that I have enjoyed thoroughly and would like to stay in and I have also had placements which I have not enjoyed because I haven't been given enough focused work or support.

I do not believe the general staff population values the contribution of trainees. We are often given work that does not add real value to the company as we are not seen as responsible enough to manage something real.

Some aspects of the programme are well organised, such as the Six Monthly Review (SMR) process. However, we now have to organise our own placements independently which can sometimes be hard. The length of placements also differs greatly which can lead to a lack of structure.

There is a real lack of support from Furness College. There have been several issues raised about the quality of the teaching and the behaviour of other students in the class.

I have received very good support from my Line Manager, however there has been a lack of support from my Discipline Manager, who now works off site. I feel I could talk to my Line Manager about any issues I had and would be supported through these.

My salary from my traineeship has allowed me to purchase my own home. I sometimes struggle with the cost of living but I am earning more than my peers of a similair age.

There are lots of opportunities throughout the year to take part in Stretch Assignments as well as a strong social community among the Graduates and Trainees.

Yes

I believe BAE Systems are a good employer who provide a fair salary and have opportunities around the globe. The Trainee scheme has allowed my to visit several different areas of the business which is an experience I have found invaluable.

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