It was when I went on to do A-levels in Pure Mathematics, Chemistry and Human Biology in Yale College that I first found out about engineering apprenticeships and the opportunities and advantages they provide to a person wanting a career in engineering.
I applied to become an engineering apprentice in Airbus as I enjoy being put in challenging situations and thrive when experiencing real issues in the workplace. This is exactly what an apprenticeship in Airbus provides. It also includes support from the business to gain all the necessary qualifications, skills and knowledge that allow becoming a successful engineer. I have also worked with different mentors with many years experience in the industry, who provided me with invaluable experience and understanding.
As an apprentice Design Engineer, my primary role within Airbus is to perform the design analysis and stress justifications for concessions raised. Concessions are deviations from drawing requirements that have occurred in production. It's my responsibility to provide a solution with evidence that the product will still conform to the required design standards.
My long term goal is to become a lead design engineer or lead stress engineer. So, over the next two to three years, I hope to gain as much expertise and awareness in my chosen function within Airbus; design and stress. I also want to gain international experience at other Airbus sites, such as Toulouse and Hamburg.
I would recommend an apprenticeship at Airbus to anyone. An apprenticeship offers you the chance to gain qualifications such as a BEng (Hons) Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering degree, in conjunction with hands-on experience in a live working environment.
You can also get involved in all sorts of things. During my time in Airbus I have had the opportunity to meet VIPs, been part of Farnborough Air show, travelled abroad and developed my inter-cultural awareness by working with colleagues from different countries. I have experienced all the advantages and opportunities an apprenticeship encompasses and I have been able to secure not only a job, but a career in Airbus when I complete my apprenticeship.