Bradley Jeavons – Case Study
Employer: Alstom
Job Title: Electrical Design Engineering Apprentice
Apprenticeship: Level 3 Rail Engineering Design Technician Standard
Why did you decide to follow the route of an Apprenticeship?
I decided that completing an Apprenticeship would give me the opportunity to gain experience and learn simultaneously. This is something I would not have had if I had chosen another path such as University. An Apprenticeship is also a great way to kick start yourself into a career rather than completing a qualification and being left searching for a suitable role afterwards.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
An average day working on depot for me consists of updating 3D CAD models to suit modifications I am making to a vehicle; I will then update the 2D drawings to reflect this. I may also visit the shop floor and liaise with production staff regarding these modifications. I also update electrical schematics in respect to the modifications we are making.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
My job comes with different challenges and learning opportunities each day, this makes every day different from the last. My role in design also comes with a large amount of responsibility to get the job done right, this adds enjoyment to my position as it makes me feel valued within the company.
How did your STEGTA Training Officer and Employer support you throughout your Apprenticeship?
My STEGTA Training Officer and ALSTOM were there to support me every step of the way throughout my Apprenticeship. Regular reviews ensured that I was staying on track and meeting my targets to complete my Apprenticeship timely and I was able to organise additional support when and where I needed it.
How did you prepare for the End Point Assessment process?
I feel that completing my competence portfolio was one of the main contributors to preparing for my EPA. This meant that I already had a large amount of experience answering professional questions and most of the material for my EPA had already been considered earlier on in my Apprenticeship.
How has your role developed since starting with your employer?
Since starting with ALSTOM, I feel I have gained more responsibility within my role as I have become gradually more competent and experienced in my job. The nature of my role means I am always learning new skills and I enjoy broadening my capabilities.
Do you hope to progress to any further training/higher education?
I’m currently completing a Level 4 HNC in General Engineering at Rugby College and I hope to progress even further in the future. Having invaluable experience and institutional qualifications makes you an invaluable member of any team.
What would you say to someone considering a career in this industry?
I believe a job in engineering is a job for life. Pursuing a career in this industry will allow you to develop not only as a professional, but it will also open many opportunities to support you as you develop throughout your personal life.