What Is an Academy Engineering Apprentice?
My current role is as an Academy Engineering Apprentice. What does this mean to me? I am privileged to rotate throughout the various Engineering functions within the business, so I can navigate towards a discipline that aligns with my capabilities and interests. These rotations are designed to give new starts, like me, an opportunity to work in engineering and non-engineering rotations. In a nutshell, the whole idea of this academy is to: develop a wider picture of how our business operates, meet and network with engineering employees, and most importantly, build up and develop new skills.
What Skills Can You Learn?
This year I’ve put my personal development above everything else. I’ve made a conscious effort from day one to say ‘yes’ to any opportunity that has come my way. This is an underlying motto encouraged throughout Thales. I have since been able to present back concepts I’ve developed as part of a working group to over 200 people. For example, throughout the year I’ve pulled together multiple projects to showcase my learning throughout rotations. I have presented in front of heads of departments, heads of schools (at university), or to an audience of mums and dads that enrolled their children in the primary engineering programme.
What Is the Work-Life Balance Like?
My apprenticeship is set up to encourage a good balance between both university and the workplace. I attend Ulster University one day a week and the remainder onsite at work. An obvious benefit of this pathway is that I can finish university with no debt, a degree, and five years of experience in Engineering. That’s one of the many perks of enrolling in an apprenticeship!
Is the University Experience the Same?
Being an apprentice, or being at work doesn’t mean I lose out on university life. Since Joining Ulster, I have joined the netball team where I’ve had the opportunity to engage with many other students, most of which I now have great relationships with. I’ve also moved into the student accommodation, living with a group of other students and friends who I’ve now secured a house with for my second year. The only downside here is I don’t get the ‘lie in’ that they do!
It’s been a great first year at Thales. From being recognised for my contributions to various projects, and time invested in volunteering or engaging in STEM events. I’ve recently received my first internal award and I’m very grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had so far.
This article was written by Sinead, an Academy Engineering Apprentice at Thales. Connect with Sinead on LinkedIn here!
