Ask an apprentice: Benjamin Mountford

We talked to Ben about his experiences as an apprentice at Capula, here's what he said:

Q. What Apprenticeship are you currently studying for?

A. I am currently studying for a Level 4 Embedded Electronics Design and Development Apprenticeship at Staffordshire University.

Q. Who or what inspired you to take up an apprenticeship at Capula?

A. I began my apprenticeship journey studying a level 3 qualification as I felt it was a good opportunity to blend on the job and academic learning. My experience so far has motivated me to continue on that route.

I think that Capula invests a lot of time and funds into their apprentices, making sure that they can become competent engineers as well as providing many opportunities to work in exciting and growing sectors such as energy and nuclear.

Q. Route into an apprenticeship

After completing my GCSE’s, I went on to study a BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering. During my final year on the course, Capula presented their apprenticeship scheme and the opportunities they had available at my college, and it felt like the right fit for me.

Q. What does your typical day in the workplace include?

My typical day sees me using engineering tools such as using AutoCAD Electrical to create or alter designs, ensuring that they are created to the customers specification and discussing any problems with the rest of the team.

Q. What skills have you developed during your apprenticeship?

• General IT skills and knowledge
• AutoCAD Electrical skills
• Knowledge of engineering industry
• Teamwork?

Q. What is your college/work life balance like?

A. At the moment, my college and work life balance is good as I’m able to give equal amounts of attention to both. I think it’s important that we are given time to reflect on what we have learned to avoid information overload and to enable us to apply our learning to future tasks.

Q. Why did you decide to progress onto an apprenticeship over university?

A. I’m much more of a practical learner so it benefits me to learn on the job, not to mention the added benefit of earning a wage!

Q. Have you been able to get involved in any major projects?

A. I wouldn’t say I have been involved in a major project as yet, but I have been an integral member of many project teams and feel I have contributed well to each one.

I am looking forward to the opportunity to working on more projects as Capula supports many exciting initiatives, so once I have built up my confidence and experience I’ll be keen to get involved where I can.

Q. How has Capula supported you through your apprenticeship?

A. So far, Capula has been very supportive during my apprenticeship. I have regular progress meetings with my university tutors and mentors at Capula, helping me to discuss any problems as well as giving me an opportunity to share where I may need more support.

Q. What would your advice be to somebody thinking about studying an apprenticeship?

A. I’d recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is considering it. My advice would be to do your research into companies you are interested in and find out how they treat the apprentices once the qualification has been completed. That way you know whether there is opportunity for you to progress through the company.

Q. What do you hope to do next?

A. Having only recently joined Capula I would say my main goal is to progress within the company and gain experience in as many areas of the business as I can.