What is your current role?

I’m a Software Engineering Graduate Apprentice at the Edinburgh site. I’m in my second year of the programme, and as we rotate yearly, I’ve now moved to my second placement working with a new team.

I’m currently working as part of a team which provides tracking capability for many products which has been amazing so far. I’ve been given a variety of interesting tasks which has allowed me to develop my skills with the help of my encouraging team.

Why did you decide to become an apprentice?

I chose to do an apprenticeship because I thought getting work experience alongside a university degree was an unbelievable opportunity. The hands-on aspect you gain through doing an apprenticeship is really valuable, however I also enjoy the academic side and understand the importance of the theory behind what I do, so the Graduate Apprenticeship scheme was the perfect fit for me.

I have also always loved routine and surprisingly much preferred the idea of a working schedule rather than the typical university life!

I decided to do my apprenticeship at Leonardo because of their commitment to innovation and excellence. I felt as though the work they did was so important, and I really resonated with the fact Leonardo are always striving to develop the best new technologies. The whole opportunity was one that really excited me, so I applied straight away.

What does a typical day look like in your role?

When university is in session, I’m in the office from Tuesday to Thursday where I work in a team who practice the agile methodology. This is a framework commonly used in Software where the project is split down into smaller tasks. Using this framework, I pick a task and work on that. This often entails writing code, tests, documentation or all the above. I also get to review other people’s work daily which keeps the agile cycle going. I’ve found working with professionals is so valuable, everyone in my team have been so understanding and supportive and I feel I’ve learned a lot from them sharing their knowledge! The encouraging environment I work in has been such a key part in my progression so far.

For me, Mondays and Fridays are academic days where I attend university and complete any given assignments. I find this structure works great and gives me the time to complete all my academic work, whilst being able to get involved in work and feel like part of my team.

What is your greatest achievement at Leonardo so far?

Leonardo has provided me with many valuable opportunities that have helped me grow both technically and professionally, and I’m really pleased with my overall development since I started the apprenticeship.

I’m also part of the work experience team which means I get to help organise and show students what it’s like to work at Leonardo. We take them to different parts of the company and get them to interact with employees, completing exciting tasks, and at the end of the week presenting to a board of senior management. I’m so proud to be part of a team which is encouraging STEM in young people, promoting Leonardo and their apprenticeship scheme.

Are there any hobbies you take part in outside of your apprenticeship?

I relax by going to the gym and playing music! I play guitar and sing, and love writing songs and performing when I get the chance. I find having hobbies like exercise and music gives me a healthy balance and gives me the chance to chill out, because juggling university and work isn’t always easy!

What are your aspirations for the future?

One of my main goals for the near future is to graduate my apprenticeship with First Class Honours. After that I’m looking forward to developing all the skills I’ve learned during the apprenticeship, and work through the career progression framework as I reach those stages. I also will strive to continue promoting apprenticeships to make sure everyone knows this pathway is an option.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship?

I couldn’t recommend an apprenticeship more. Being able to gain knowledge through completing a degree, as well as from working on real products and learning from experts in their area is so valuable.

Getting paid, a degree, and 4 years of work experience seemed like a no brainer to me so I’m trying to continue promoting apprenticeships to make sure everyone is aware of the opportunity and has the chance to explore this pathway.