Institution news
Attending an IMechE networking event on 6 February with engineers and local volunteers, they explained the attraction of their apprenticeship scheme.
Benjamin has just started his second placement, now in land equipment, where he scrutinises equipment that soldiers use. He looks at durability and examines the loads on equipment as well as the training that troops will need for different environmental conditions.
He says: “As an engineer I have to understand the potential uses – and abuses – that equipment will be put to, and find the best solution for different scenarios. This role really tests my ability to find solutions appropriate for each situation taking into account local conditions and legislation.”
Sebastian has just started a placement working with the in-service engineering team for the Puma Mk II helicopter. “I am part of a team of engineers investigating issues raised by the RAF personnel and making sure they don’t happen again.
“Our team sits between the end user and the manufacturer and I am enjoying learning how the whole system works. I am already developing my own responsibilities for requesting modifications to equipment and presenting these for approval.”
Jake is three weeks into his placement in land equipment and is currently working in the team developing new virtual training for gunners on the Challenger II tank. He says: “This new training package uses a motion sensor rig and means the gunner feels all the movements of the vehicle while wearing the virtual reality headset.
“It’s an effective way of introducing the personnel to the equipment before they actually use it for real.”
Benjamin, who is an Affiliate Apprentice member of the IMechE, is also now trained as a STEM ambassador and is a governor at his local school. He takes the responsibility for inspiring the next generation of engineers seriously.
The three apprentices are clear about the value of the DE&S apprenticeship scheme, and Benjamin says: “What we do is broad-reaching and can put us into contact with any ship or soldier, or airman around the world, and in changing environments.”
He continues: “The three-year programme is intensive and full-on, and to excel on it is quite an achievement.”
Jake adds: “It’s arguably the best apprenticeship in the country – and the hardest!”