“Once I’d completed my GCSE’s I decided to stay on at school to do my A-levels. At this stage I thought that I’d complete my A Levels and then go onto University. However, a year into my A levels I realised that I wanted more practical learning. I’d always enjoyed problem solving and excelled in design technology, science and maths at school, so I felt a career in engineering was the right path for me.
“So, after I finished my A-levels I began to research apprenticeship opportunities. A friend recommended TTE to me, and that’s where I came across the Sirius and TTE apprenticeship programme. I sent in my CV, completed an online test and interview and was accepted onto the apprenticeship. It’s a four-year apprenticeship course – two years at TTE learning about general engineering principles and then two years onsite at Sirius, which is more on the job, specialised training.
“My goal is to become a full time Mechanical Engineer at Sirius. Currently I’m studying five days a week, three completing my Level 3 Engineering qualification and two learning the practical skills needed to be employed at Sirius. The trainers at TTE are amazing and treat you like an adult. They are very professional, knowledgeable and approachable. I’ve had lots of hands on experience in the workshops which is invaluable.
“The facilities and machinery are ex-industry so ideal for me to learn on, so when I go to Sirius it will feel familiar. Engineering is still viewed by many as a male industry and I’m proud of my determination and achievements.
“I excel alongside my work colleagues, there’s 15 people in my group and only 3 of us are female. I always wanted a job in engineering and I feel proud that I’m a woman in engineering.”
Course: Level 3 Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeship
Employer: Sirius