Applied Engineering Programme degree apprentice Jordan Albutt reflects on recent successes with Rolls-Royce. Having joined the course in 2018, Jordan has experienced first-hand how a degree apprenticeship can open up career opportunities. Recently nominated for the EW BrightSparks 2020 Award, which highlights the most promising electronic engineers in the UK, Jordan reflects on his role, skills and experiences on the course.

1. Congratulations on being nominated as part of the Brightsparks programme - Can you tell us a little bit about it? How do you get nominated?

I’m thrilled to have been acknowledged by an industry recognised organisation in Electronics Weekly through their BrightSparks award. The acknowledgement came as a result of a project I completed in the electronics placement of my apprenticeship at Rolls-Royce (Civil Aerospace division). The Project involved implementing a new Printed Circuit Board (PCB) inspection process that inspects solder paste deposits. This identifies faults early on in the PCB manufacturing process and contributed to a cost saving of approximately £10000 for the company in the 2019 year.

2. Briefly describe your role and your apprenticeship. Why did you decide to do a degree apprenticeship?

I decided to apply for a degree apprenticeship because I believed that a combination of academic and practical learning would give me the best grounding to set up a successful career in engineering. Being able to study towards a degree whilst applying some of these skills in my role as a Manufacturing Engineer is a big advantage in my opinion.

3. What skills are you applying to your role?

I regularly monitor the quality of processes and apply methods taught in quality modules at university, whilst the knowledge developed in design modules feeds naturally into my job role.

4. What are your ambitions for the future?

I’m very keen to progress at Rolls-Royce. Whilst 2020 has been a tough year for the industry, there are still some positives to take from the work we have done. A downturn in demand for products has meant that we have been able to refine and strengthen our processes to make them leaner and more efficient. I hope to be able to follow up on some of this work and capitalise as market demand returns. I’d ultimately like to move into a management role, but only when I feel I have sufficient technical knowledge to perform this role competently.

5. What’s the best piece of advice you could give someone thinking about doing a degree apprenticeship?

For someone completing a degree apprenticeship, I’d encourage you to ensure that you find a comfortable work-life balance. Whilst the scheme will be demanding, it’s important to remember that you’re in a fantastic position as you will come out of your scheme with a paid-for degree, but also 4-5 years of industry experience. Take every opportunity you can and broaden your horizons.

Find out more about WMG's degree apprenticeships hereLink opens in a new window.