Holly is a final year British Engines apprentice working at group company, BEL Engineering. She began her Mechanical Engineering apprenticeship in 2017 and is due to complete this summer. Here she tells us about her time as an apprentice and her future goals…
Why did you apply for the Apprenticeship Scheme?
My interest in engineering started at school during a women in engineering programme. This led me to apply for an access course at TDR training school, learning about welding and machining. Six months later I found an apprenticeship that matched my interests at BEL Engineering and I’ve been here for the last four years.
How would you describe your time as an apprentice?
Challenging but rewarding. The academic side of the scheme can be difficult and studying for tests and completing coursework is demanding, but the ability to study at work and receive support from engineers is really helpful. Once I got my head down, I was able to complete all coursework and revision. I’ve passed all of my final assignments which I’m happy about!
What have you enjoyed the most?
The British Engines apprenticeship scheme was my first job after I finished school and adjusting to work was new at first. I really enjoy working life and over the four years I’ve become accountable and developed strong time management skills.
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
As part of Apprenticeship+, I was appointed leader of my apprenticeship group. Managing a team of four, I organised and delegated tasks to other apprentices and got a taste for managing a small team. In five years’ time I’d like to be working behind the scenes, planning and organising projects.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to the apprentice scheme?
Once you start the apprenticeship, stick at it and persevere. It’s a great feeling at the end of the four years knowing you’ve passed your course. I’m really excited to see what the future brings and this course has been an amazing stepping stone to achieving my goals.