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Why did you choose an apprenticeship as a career route?
After leaving Sixth Form, I just wasn’t sure about going to university, and felt that an apprenticeship would be my best option. I went to work as a Telecommunications Engineering apprentice for Network Rail, before moving in a design role as a CAD/CAM programmer. I gained many valuable technical skills and experience here – I have always enjoyed learning whilst working. However, I then decided I went to try something new and went on to become a Police Officer – a hugely challenging and rewarding role! After some time, I wanted to focus on completing qualifications that were not possible when working in the Police, so I looked into apprenticeships that allowed me to focus on my personal learning and development – both academically and practically. Leonardo offered a great scheme, with a balance of study and working in a variety of areas in the business. This felt like the perfect fit for me – an environment where I could be supported through my studies and gain invaluable industry experience.
What drew you to Leonardo?
I first heard about Leonardo when a group of apprentices did a careers talk at my sixth form – I found their work fascinating. I was involved with the air cadets throughout my teenage years, so always had an interest in aviation and defence. Leonardo allowed me to combine this with my interest in engineering really well.
I had heard a lot of positive things about working at Leonardo from apprentices who had done well done during and after their time on the scheme; knowing this definitely drew me to Leonardo even more!
What does a typical week look like?
Throughout my apprenticeship, I rotate through different placements in the business whilst also attending college to compete my qualifications. So far, I have worked within System Integration on the Praetorian Defensive Aids Sub System (DASS) programme, Systems Surveillance and Protections technologies, and Combat Air Hardware. I have completed various aspects of project work across these teams such as technical documentation, unit testing, analysing results, upgrading aspect of network security, and lab testing. In my current placement, I test different Line Replaceable Items (LRIs) from DASS. When a LRI fails during production, it is sent to my team to investigate and confirm the fault.
I also try to get involved in other activities at Leonardo, such as STEM outreach events, the Fit for the Future social programme, and the Innovation Hub Lab – where engineers can learn new skills and part take in different competitions and events.
What has been the best thing about your time at Leonardo?
The best thing about working Leonardo has been how supportive the apprentice team and placement managers have been. They have given me opportunities to get involved with activities and events alongside my placement work, which has really helped me get to know people around work and learn new skills. They have also supported me in studying for my degree with The Open University alongside my apprenticeship.
I have been surprised by the variety of work at Leonardo. There really is something for everyone, and an apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to find out what suits you best!
What has been the greatest achievement in your career?
My greatest achievement is being a recipient of an Electronics Weekly BrightSparks award in 2023. The award recognises 30 UK-based young engineers who show promise to become future leaders and innovators.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to people looking to make a first step in their career?
Yes! Apprenticeships are such fantastic opportunities. They were not really advertised when I was at school, and were often looked down upon as an option for those who could not attend university. This is not the case at all – you can gain real industry experiences whilst completing the same qualifications as those in further education. I have gained so much from my apprenticeship and would always recommend one to those starting out in their first or a new career.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I aspire to complete my apprenticeship and graduate from university over the next few years. Then, I would like to take on an engineering role at Leonardo and move onto postgraduate studies.
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