Technical Engineering Apprentice
“What FCDO Services do is pretty unique, so the apprenticeship offered opportunities that I didn’t think I’d find, anywhere else. As a Technical Engineering apprentice, I’m part of the team who install and maintain security systems for UK government customers at home and right across the world. Basically, anywhere the UK government has a presence. There are some places we visit that I had never heard of before joining, let alone able to pronounce. Places that you wouldn’t typically visit on a holiday.
Travelling was a huge factor for me. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do – and my programme allows me to. Most of my work is overseas and I’m constantly looking forward to new experiences. There are also opportunities to work as a team, learning off others and individually to grow your skills. I work with quite a few other teams too, like Project Managers, so you also get the opportunity to learn about other areas of the business. There’s also the on-the-job training, as well as time out to study and get professional qualifications. All the while, you’re earning a good wage and you qualify without any debt.
"Travelling was a huge factor for me. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do – and my programme allows me to."
My highlights, so far? The first is receiving an RAF Team Commendation in the RAF New Year’s Honours List 2022. The second is being part of the Logistics Support Hub for COP26. The third is meeting and working with talented, like-minded people across FCDO Services and other parts of the Civil Service.
I know that FCDO Services want me to do well. Everyone is so supportive of the decisions I make. My manager puts me in new situations all the time to help grow my confidence. We have regular catch ups and they’re frequently finding me opportunities that are designed to push me to help me achieve my goals. Two years ago, I joined with very little confidence but I have grown so much because of the encouragement from everyone I’ve worked with.
"Two years ago, I joined with very little confidence but I have grown so much because of the encouragement from everyone I’ve worked with."
As a 20-year-old, I never thought I would have achieved or done as much as I have since starting my apprenticeship. I’ve had the opportunity to work with people I never thought I would, in places I didn’t even know existed. And I’ve gained so much experience that I know I will carry with me throughout my life. The apprenticeship has given me opportunities to network, meet new people and expand my career prospects. I chose to do an engineering apprenticeship and it’s given me a great foundation of knowledge in that field. But working with colleagues in other teams has also shown me what avenues I could possibly take in the future.
How would I sum up my experience? You have unique experiences, it’s fun, you meet talented people, travel the world, earn a good wage and you get a fantastic support network."
