Joe
Nuclear Engineer Degree Apprentice
How long have you worked at AWE?
5 1/2 months.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship over other career routes?
I chose an apprenticeship as I wanted to gain vital work experience throughout the course and graduate while already having 4 years’ experience. Having a clear pathway into a job was a major benefit to taking apprenticeship for me as a mature learner. I was also keen to eliminate the financial pressures that typically comes with going to regular university and taking out student finance, which also attracted me to the role.
Why did you choose AWE?
The reason I chose AWE is because of the unique nature of the job. As an ex-member of the armed forces I am proud to again be working in a role that directly contributes towards the national security of the UK. I am looking forward to working on complicated and exciting tasks and projects. At this early stage I am gathering a broad range of technical skills in the skills academy, which I understand is a necessary and beneficial process before moving on to my relevant placement. My impression of AWE is that it is a professional and responsible organisation. The working culture is team orientated with many likeminded and talented individuals working together to achieve a common goal.
Tell us about your time at AWE?
So far at AWE I have split my time between working in different placements within the skills academy and completing periodic 1-month blocks at university. In the skills academy we rotate through the different apprenticeships on offer, working on basic mechanical and electrical/electronic tasks. At university I am working towards a degree in mechanical engineering with nuclear science, a challenging course which I thoroughly enjoy, delivered at a brand new and state of the art facility.
What’s the best thing about your job?
At this early stage the best thing about my job is the amount I have learned and the new things I continue to learn every week. I love education and I am grateful that the company provides such a high standard of education as part of my job. I’ve also made a lot of friends that I am excited to continue working with in future.
How do you see your career progressing?
When I graduate, I want to spend a couple of years in the role, trying different placements available and taking any courses on offer and trying to make myself a well-rounded engineer. During this time, I would love to spend some time working on projects abroad with the company. When I’m in a role I like and have an aptitude for, I wish to gain a masters degree relevant to that role.
What are the benefits of AWE?
A great benefit of working at AWE is that you’re encouraged to better yourself through education and the company is willing to sponsor their employees to reach their academic potential. Management are helpful and I feel as an employee there’s always somebody I can approach with any issue I may have. The company also pays competitively with generous leave allowances and a 9-day fortnight.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining AWE?
As an apprentice I would say take a good look at all the roles on offer and aim high. I say this because I have met level 3 apprentices that already have level 3s and regret not considering the HNC/Degree level courses. To anyone else I would recommend the company because of the benefits I mentioned above.
