GetMyFirstJob Ambassador
Hello, I Am Lucy Smith
I’m an operations apprentice at AWE. My apprenticeship involves rotating through different areas of the business to gain a broad range of skills and experiences, while also attending college and completing training plans.
Tell us more about your experience
After finishing my GCSEs, I wasn’t sure what career path to take. I initially joined sixth form, but when my preferred course was cancelled, I began looking for apprenticeships. I already knew about AWE, and when I saw the variety of apprenticeships they offered, the operations apprenticeship stood out to me. It provides the opportunity to learn about different areas of the company over a three year period and then potentially specialize in a preferred field, which is ideal for someone like me who was unsure about their future career.
As I rotate through different areas of the business, my daily tasks vary. Generally, I shadow team members, observe their work, participate in training, and develop an understanding and experience in their daily responsibilities. This can involve both hands-on, practical work and more office-based admin work.
AWE offers lots of support. We have line managers and training managers who provide guidance. There are also systems in place to report any incidents or concerns you have and to ensure they are followed up on.
There is also great health and wellbeing support through the company benefits system.
I attend college once a week, studying for a Level 3 Process Industry Manufacturing Technician course. In my first year, we are focusing on maths and chemistry, both in theory and practical sessions in labs or classrooms. As the course progresses, we’ll start workshop-based tasks, which I’m looking forward to.
College feels a lot different from school. It’s more like another workday but in a different environment.
At the end of my apprenticeship, I’ll review my placements to decide which areas I’d like to pursue. If those areas have available roles and are willing, they can offer me a position. If not, I’ll transition into an operations role.
I highly recommend an apprenticeship. You get paid to learn and avoid student debt, which is a huge benefit. An apprenticeship is the best way to gain real-world work experience while continuing your education. It will provide invaluable experience that will benefit you greatly in the future.