Emily

Engineering Apprentice

What do you do?

I am an engineering apprentice, specialising in electronics

What did you study?

What may seem surprising about me going for this role is that I didn’t choose any engineering related options for my GCSE’s. I did take art graphics which helps with my engineering drawings and my science GCSEs help with my electrical theory for college and work.

How did you decide what field to go into?

I wanted to be an engineer as it was something new and exciting to do whilst learning and doing practical work, something which I really enjoy.

What route did you take?

I joined the AWE electronics apprenticeship programme straight after finishing my GCSE’s. I picked this route because I wanted to try something new and different than being in full time education, so an apprenticeship was my best choice.  It allowed me to expand my knowledge whilst being a part of an award-winning apprenticeship scheme.

 What’s the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my job is that I get the opportunity to push my skills each day and try new things which I never imagined myself doing. I get to work with great people and the instructors who run the programme always find time to help if you have any questions or need support with anything at all.

I have loved working with other apprentices to run events for schools – such as our Females in Engineering challenge’ – it shows how engineering has a big impact on everyone.

What are the opportunities for further study?

I plan to go on further and do a HNC and HND in electronics to further my knowledge of the concepts of engineering.

What advice would you give someone who is considering an apprenticeship?

The advice I would someone thinking about going into an apprenticeship is to apply whilst you can as otherwise it will be a missed opportunity of a life time.  Even if you’re not 100% certain about it yet don’t miss the fantastic opportunity and apply!