Technical Engineering Apprentice
“In a previous life I was a Painter and Decorator, but I wanted to try my hand at engineering: I had an itch that needed scratching. So just before joining FCDO Services, you’ll have found me studying engineering in a material conversion factory.
"You never know what’s around the corner, and there’s a chance to try something new every day."
Why did I choose the Technical Engineering Apprenticeship? Well, for me it was about the extraordinary challenge and being part of something bigger, and the fact that my morning commute might not always be in England. We get to work in such a unique environment – you never know what’s around the corner, and there’s a chance to try something new every day.
Right now, I’m working towards gaining a Level 3 NVQ and getting involved in lots of different things. As an apprentice, you’ll often be given small projects to do when you’re not travelling: one day you could be helping to prepare equipment for overseas work, and the next you’re spending time in the workshops building and testing some of the systems we use. And when a trip’s coming up, you’ll be in the skills room to practise anything you might need while you’re away. I remember my first big trip overseas: I got to meet an ambassador and their deputy, and grew my understanding of their role in the UK’s diplomatic efforts. It’s definitely one of my stand-out moments so far.
"Many former apprentices are now in leadership roles, so it’s great to see that we have brilliant career prospects here at FCDO Services."
Some words of wisdom: as the first year of the apprenticeship is based primarily at college, you may struggle to understand some of the areas of the organisation or feel like you’re not getting involved enough – but don’t fret. As you leave college and start the job proper, you’ll spend time going around the different areas of FCDO Services and learning about how everything fits together. Regardless of which apprenticeship programme you join, everyone respects that you’re there and will always help you along the way.
You’ll also quickly learn that your development is taken seriously here. Many former apprentices are now in leadership roles, so it’s great to see that we have brilliant career prospects here at FCDO Services."
