What is your current role?
I’m a Business Degree Apprentice at our Luton site, having joined in September 2023.
Why did you decide to become an apprentice?
I decided to do an apprenticeship because I wanted to do something practical and get hands-on experience, applying my learning – both in my degree and previous studies – in a real-life working environment. I believe the apprenticeship route is a perfect way to start your career and establish a footing in a company. Leonardo had fantastic reviews online from previous apprentices and it drew me to apply. I had no previous knowledge of Leonardo or the industry, so I was very interested to learn more.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
An apprenticeship is made up of many different placements across the business. A typical day would be discussing the work ahead for the day with my placement manager. Throughout the day I will complete various tasks, join meetings and shadow various members of the team on my placement. One example would be my work with our BriteCloud countermeasure project team where I would support the Procurement team with managing the supply chain and building good working relationships with other functions internally as well as external suppliers. After finishing the day and arriving home, I tend to spend a few hours completing University work ahead of lecture days.
What is your greatest achievement at Leonardo so far?
My greatest achievement at Leonardo so far is securing a place with the Procurement team ahead of completing my apprenticeship in 2027. Procurement stood out as the function I find the most enjoyable and would see myself succeeding in.
Are there any hobbies/activities you take part in outside of your apprenticeship?
Outside of my apprenticeship I love to travel. I have been to Seoul twice over the past two years and it has become one of my favourite places in the world . As well as travelling, you will frequently find me in the gym most days of the week as I enjoy the exercise and it is very helpful to destress and promote a positive wellbeing.
What are your aspirations for the future?
My short time aspiration is to finish my degree with a First before going on to develop myself within the Procurement function to move up the seniority chain and, hopefully, reach VP level one day in the future.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship, and why?
I am extremely passionate about apprenticeships and would highly recommend them. In the working world, I believe experience is invaluable, and apprenticeships provide an opportunity to gain 3-4 years of working experience while studying a degree. Moreover, being able to apply university learning directly into your work is helpful in seeing how theories and frameworks can be applied to your work. Lastly, there are significant financial benefits in that Leonardo is funding my education and development, enabling me to work and develop personally and professionally without the burden of debts or loans for my education. Earning a salary supports living costs, leisure activities and anything else you might like to spend hard-earned money on.
