As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2019, we are interviewing our current and past apprentices, to find out what it’s like to complete an apprenticeship, and work at Bradbury Group.
Today, we’d like to introduce you to our former apprentices, Isabel Mead and Bradley Marsden, to give you an insight into apprenticeships, and what it’s like to be a Design Engineer in our research and development (R&D) department.
Isabel Mead, 19, Design EngineerI completed an apprenticeship in design and technical support – I was enjoying the work I was doing at HETA in my traineeship so I knew I wanted to continue with engineering but I wasn’t 100% sure what field. Then a design role became available and I researched into it and knew it would be something that I would enjoy. Bradbury Group also offered “shop floor” days meaning I also got to spend time doing hands-on work and even got to try welding.
My main responsibilities are creating the necessary bill of materials (BOM), and creating 3D models and technical drawings.
I received on the job training which has helped me to build and retain valuable skills. It allows a controlled transition from education to working life which helped me to learn how to deal with pressure. I was also able to visit the other areas of Bradbury Group during my apprenticeship, which has been helpful to my work to understand other departments roles within the company.
I want to be able to have the knowledge and confidence to be able to teach someone who is in my position now and I want to be able to do it well enough that in 5 years they can continue the cycle. My main goal is to be thriving in a position that I work hard for and am happy in.
I think apprenticeships really help to bring people out of their shells and help them grow a fondness for working. You get to meet so many people and experience opportunities that, when taking the college-to-university path, some people wouldn’t until they are in their late twenties.
Bradley Marsden, 24, Design EngineerI completed an apprenticeship in engineering in October 2016, through which I obtained an NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Technical Support & Engineering Drawings, alongside a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. This apprenticeship allowed me to combine the CAD skills required to do my day to day job, with an understanding of the hands-on manual processes that go on in the engineering field.
Currently, my main responsibilities include creating 3D master models, prototyping and creating new parts products, and redeveloping existing products.
Doing an apprenticeship has helped me in my work, as I had the opportunity to shadow Senior Design Engineer, Kevin Blagg, who was able to use his experience to develop my own skills.
I want to progress to become a Senior Design Engineer. I would also like to be able to mentor new apprentices and pass on my experience.
I’d recommend an apprenticeship as you get to earn and learn at the same time. I am also further on in my career than if I had taken a more educational route.
