Learning at work - meet Graduate Apprentice Kieran Howie from Chemring Energetics UK, Ardeer

Tell us a bit about your role

I manage the electrical side of the site, making sure air handling units are working, presses are working etc. I also get involved in the high voltage network, controls, and instrumentation. Ardeer is a huge site, around two square miles in total with about 180 buildings. That means I’m exposed to a massive variety of equipment. There’s old machinery and brand new machinery, so there’s lots to learn.
What attracted you to the apprenticeship?

I was encouraged by my Dad, as he is an electrician working in the construction industry. I wanted to keep my options open, so I went on a pre-apprentice programme. It was an all-rounder course involving CNC machinery, welding, sheet metal, turning, electrical – all sorts of skills. I realised I was strongest on the electrical side.

I’m on a graduate apprenticeship with Chemring to become an engineer. It’s a four-year apprenticeship and I’m now in my second year. At the end of the programme, I’ll have a Design and Manufacture Engineering degree. I previously did a HNC qualification and spent four years as an electrical apprentice split between Chemring and another company. 

How is the programme structured?

I work a four-day week and spend one full day per week at Uni. It’s a long day, studying 9am to 9pm and also on a Tuesday night for two trimesters. It’s a mixture of theoretical and practical work with exams towards to the end of each year. We also have a continuous assessment with tests every five to six weeks. 

Due to Covid, this year’s exams will be online, where we’ll be given two exams each with five in-depth questions. 

It’s a technically very difficult course but I’ve been well supported by Chemring. They’ve helped with stationary, books and materials, and also extra maths tuition and travel costs when required. 

What are your career plans?

I’d like to work in an office role as an electrical engineer, eventually becoming the technical authority for the Ardeer site. That’s a really noble and respected position - to be responsible for anything electrical that comes on to the site. 

I’d also jump at the chance to travel to other areas of Chemring if the opportunity came up. It is very satisfying getting to know one site inside out though. 

Any words of advice to apprentices just starting the programme?

Study more! You’ve got to put the work in as it’s not easy, but if you’re given the opportunity then go for it. The apprentices and the whole maintenance team are a great squad, and you’ll get well taken care of.