What is your current role?
Cyber Degree Apprentice based at the Bristol site.
Why did you decide to become an apprentice?
From an early age at school, I knew I wanted a career in cyber security, even if I wasn't yet sure which specific role. Studying GCSE Computer Science and later completing my Software Development T-Level strengthened my ambition to specialise in the field. I realised that an apprenticeship, where I could apply my skills, gain real-world workplace experience and still work towards a degree, was the ideal route for me.
Leonardo’s Cyber Security Degree Apprenticeship particularly stood out due to its broad exposure to all areas of cyber security. Through a series of placements, we cover a wide range of topics and practices, from network engineering to software development. By the end of the scheme, I will be in a strong position to decide which role I want to move into full time, far more so than if I were coming straight from a full-time university course.
You studied T-Levels. How do you feel taking part in T-Levels benefited you before starting your apprenticeship?
Studying the Digital Software Development T-Level equipped me with a strong set of practical skills that I now use regularly at Leonardo. This included learning effective project management approaches, understanding the full Software Development Lifecycle, and developing the ability to plan software projects in a structured and efficient way. I was also fortunate enough to be in Leonardo’s first cohort of T-Level industrial placements. My 350+ hours of work experience not only allowed me to further develop and implement skills gained at college, but also gave me a valuable insight into life at Leonardo!
Would you recommend T-Levels to others who are considering this route in their education?
The T-Level programme prepared me well for an apprenticeship and I would highly recommend this route. They are almost the inverse of an apprenticeship, with 20% of the qualification being a work placement and the other 80% classroom-based learning. Progressing onto an apprenticeship felt very natural, more so than if I’d studied multiple A-levels with no industrial experience.
How did you hear about our Early Career Apprentice Schemes?
My college had a very good relationship with Leonardo and offered many opportunities, including a careers fair where I was able to speak with the Early Careers team and current apprentices. Naturally, after having such a great experience during my placement, I was eager to join the company longer term through an apprenticeship.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
My days are incredibly varied. I’ve been laying cables and deploying physical networking infrastructure, developing and debugging software and CI/CD (Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery) pipelines, and expanding my cloud knowledge with a particular focus on AWS (Amazon Web Service).
What is your greatest achievement at Leonardo so far?
Studying for and achieving my AWS Cloud Practitioner certification has been a major highlight. Cloud engineering is an area I am particularly passionate about and having the opportunity to complete an industry recognised qualification, sponsored by the company, was a really valuable experience.
Are there any hobbies you take part in outside of your apprenticeship?
I still enjoy writing my own software and configuring my home server, and sometimes I attend ethical hacking competitions or CTFs (Capture the Flag) at universities. Although a hobby, it helps further enhance my cyber security skills and keeps me constantly learning.
What are your aspirations for the future?
In the short term, during the four years I am on the apprenticeship, I look forward to the various placement rotations I’ll be completing. It will enable me to hone my skills in each of the practices, with my ultimate aim being to continue to progress within Leonardo as a full-time employee.
Would you recommend an apprenticeship?
Without a doubt. The chance to earn a degree without taking on debt, gain several years of industry experience and be paid while doing it, is an incredible opportunity that I would recommend to all.
