Kevin Wilson

Name: Kevin Wilson

School: Balcarras Sixth Form

Apprenticeship: Hardware Design Engineer

Company: GE Aviation

Current job role: Hardware Project Management Department Lead at GE Aviation

"University is not for everyone. Learning methods vary as do personal circumstances around being able to or wanting to move away to Uni.  An apprenticeship is an equal alternative to getting to the same level of professionalism and career opportunity – just via a different path.

The first year was based at Gloucester Training Group to complete both theory and practical studies (electrical and electronics design) with day release at college. Years 2 to 4 involved being on site at GE Aviation and rotating through various departments such as Hardware, Software, Quality, Manufacturing, and the Drawing office, while continuing with college (day release and evening lectures). This meant I had a wide understanding of the whole business and could work my way up to management level.

My top tips when applying for an apprenticeship:

Look around and don’t be afraid to widen your view. Go into an apprenticeship with a rough view of what you are looking for longer term in your career.

Look past the ‘job’ and understand what transferable skills will be gained from the apprenticeship. When you go for an interview make sure they are right for you, not just the other way round."