This National Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating some of our Chemring apprentices, who are working towards different levels of apprenticeship, and sharing their experiences of an apprenticeship and what it has offered them.
Meet Molly, a Graduate Engineering Apprentice at Roke, who is on a Level 7 apprenticeship.
“I work in the CEMA (Cyber and Electromagnetic Activities) division of the Defence business unit for Roke. I am currently working towards a Level 7 apprenticeship, through which I will achieve a Master’s degree. This is my first apprenticeship following my graduation last year with a BA in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, where I specialised in Astrophysics.
“The Level 7 apprenticeship is the highest level of apprenticeship that you can achieve in the UK, equivalent to a Master’s degree. I am a part-time student at Cranfield University taking the MSc Systems Engineering course. I spend around 80% of my time working and 20% studying. I have two online University sessions each week, and I travel to campus for a few days every couple of months for in-person teaching. I also have time during the workweek for independent study, such as reading and assignments.
“I chose my apprenticeship as it presented the opportunity to begin my career as a Graduate Engineer at Roke whilst also continuing to study. The degree aspect provides a formal engineering education, supporting my transition from the sciences and setting me up for the rest of my career. It is a valuable opportunity to progress both academically and professionally at the same time, with each aspect complementing the other.
“I completed Roke’s Summer Vacation Scheme as an undergraduate and was eager to return to the company. Alongside interesting and challenging technical work, I have been able to work with some brilliant engineers and meet great people at work.
“It is, however, a constant struggle to balance work and University. Working late nights to meet deadlines for both, I have certainly felt the pressure at times, but I am grateful to have the encouragement of my colleagues to keep me going.
“My future career plans continue to evolve day by day, but now I know I’m heading in the right direction. I’m looking forward to the rest of my studies, as systems engineering provides a broad, holistic perspective on complex problem solving, useful in any future specialism I might pursue.
“My advice to future apprentices is to have confidence, be yourself at work and make connections. Networking can open lots of opportunities, so pursue them. Be open minded and keen to tackle anything that comes your way - but also speak up, be assertive, and ask for work you enjoy.”