Chloe Rimmer – Case Study
Employer: Luxfer MEL Technologies
Job Title: Maintenance Apprentice
Apprenticeship: Level 3 Maintenance & Operations Engineering Technician Standard
Why did you decide to follow the route of an Apprentice?
I chose an Apprenticeship as it enables me to gain valuable experience and knowledge on the job. Working with experienced engineers is an amazing opportunity to learn what they have over the years and take what is taught in the classroom and apply it to real life situations that sometimes aren’t as simple. Being able to see it gives a deeper understanding and personally helps my ability to process the information. Having on the job experience seems to be essential for job applications, so whilst gaining the qualifications, the experience gained helps put you ahead. Being able to have all of this as well as earning a wage without student debts is an amazing opportunity. I don’t think I would have been able to pursue this career without it.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
As an Apprentice, I shadow an experienced engineer on site. There are three different engineers from different departments and every four months I rotate so that I can gain a wide range of experience. I am currently with an electrical engineer who works a lot on electrical panels and programming. In the morning I attend a daily meeting with the engineers to discuss any problems or jobs that are of importance. I then shadow the engineer I am currently with around site for a range of jobs that require maintenance, fault finding or repairs. On jobs, the engineer will talk me through safety and processes, he explains what he’s doing, why he’s doing it and asks for my opinion and questions. When possible, he will also ask if I am comfortable to attempt something myself and gives me the opportunity to do it. On a rare occasion, if it is quiet, I will get the opportunity to do some course work or go through some equipment I may come across.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I enjoy the variety the role offers. No two days are the same and it’s always interesting. One job could take minutes, hours or even days but comes with a lot of satisfaction when completed. I like the manual tasks and challenging work involved with the role as well as analysing and problem solving to find solutions.
How did your STEGTA Training Officer and Employer support you throughout your Apprenticeship?
STEGTA kept in contact with me throughout the recruitment and application process, keeping me updated and informed. They have been nothing but kind and supportive throughout. My company are very supportive and offer assistance at every opportunity. From the start, they have expressed their passion for personal growth and are already keen for further training and qualifications.
I have also spent some time at The STEGTA Training Centre undertaking some Level 2 practical skills including Hand fitting and Electrical Wiring & Testing that I can incorporate into my job role. The Training Instructors offer guidance and advice learning the basic essential skills that will be required no matter the industry.
Do you hope to progress to any further training/higher education?
I would love the opportunity to continue training and education once I have finished my Level 3 Apprenticeship. I would like to go on to study towards a HNC and potentially a Degree after that.
What would you say to someone considering a career in this industry?
There is a lot to learn and a lot of time on your feet. Be prepared to do coursework in your own time and travel to two or three different places a week (work, college and training provider). Depending on the company, you can be working outside no matter what the weather and sometimes at heights. The job itself is so interesting and rewarding, I love it and have no regrets. I feel like there’s a lot of people who would be interested in engineering if they knew more about it. I’d encourage anyone who has an interest to go for it!