Gabrielle Lloyd – Case Study
Employer: CarnaudMetalbox Engineering
Job Title: Apprentice Mechanical Fitter
Apprenticeship: Level 3 Engineering Fitter Standard
Why did you decide to apply for an Engineering Apprenticeship?
I decided to apply for an Apprenticeship in Engineering after completing work experience in a similar engineering company – Fives Landis. I spent 1 day a week working in company over the span of a year, it was a little daunting at first, but I fell in love with the working environment and knew it was what I wanted to do very early on – as soon as I took a tour around the factory and watched people work. I have always been a very hands-on person and knew that I wanted to be in an active job, for me, engineering offers me a perfect balance of a hands-on job and a career that challenges my skills and knowledge every day.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
My typical work hours are 7:30am-3:30pm, but overtime is optional and is encouraged if there is a large workload that needs completing. I primarily work on assembling Bodymakers, however I have had the opportunity to work in other sectors of the company in order to get a good feel of the different roles and departments. I don’t think that there is a ‘typical’ day at CMbE as every day is different with new challenges. However, I have the opportunity to work on assembling a range of machines, fix any problems that may occur and learn new skills and ways of working problems.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Every single day at CMbE is different – I work on assembling Bodymakers, I find this machine very interesting and complex. Every time there is a problem that needs fixing, it is a different one to the last – which means that I never get bored. I have always wanted a career that is not repetitive and that is what I have in Engineering, every day is different, every problem is different, and we are constantly thinking of new innovative ways of working.
What kind of support have you received from your employer and STEGTA?
Throughout my Apprenticeship, I have felt very supported by both my employer and by my training provider – STEGTA. When I first began my apprenticeship, aged 17, I was unsure about how I would fit in – being the only female apprentice. I found that I settled into the company reasonably quickly, with the help from co-workers, my employer and training provider. I was made to feel at home and as part of a team. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
Since beginning my Apprenticeship, we as a company have taken on more female engineers – mechanical, electrical and machinists. However, we are yet to have any more female apprentices. For any girls wanting a challenging career, engineering is definitely one to consider. From my personal experience, I have found that STEGTA have offered me lots of support throughout my studies and always treated me fairly and as an equal.
What would you say to someone considering applying for an Engineering Apprenticeship?
Go for it! Applying for an Apprenticeship has been one of the biggest and best decisions I have made. Not only has it given me confidence in my working life, but it has also made me a confident person outside of work. Apprenticeships offer the ability to earn while you learn – this also helped me with my financial independence, allowing me to do much more than I would have been able to at such a young age.