Structural Dynamics Engineer Review
at Leonardo
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Engineering
Yeovil
Review Submitted: April 2022
Overall Rating
3.1 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
3/5
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Skills Development
2.6/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
My current role involves providing support to vibration assessment of the aircraft. This includes RAP testing, laboratory testing and qualification, flight data analysis, research / design for vibration isolation and general finite element analysis support using company approved software. I also get involved with design of spring mechanisms for vibration isolation.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
The staff at Leonardo have been very welcoming and helpful, making it easy to transfer between different placements and join various teams. Everyone is approachable which makes working here a lot easier. The work has been challenging and valuable for development. The company culture has improved recently, where there is more of a focus on output than being "clocked-in" and on-site.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
3/5
I have learnt many skills and developed existing skills throughout the apprenticeship. Some new skills that I have developed include: 3D modelling, Finite Element Analysis, Mathematical Modelling, Data Analysis, Spreadsheets, Report writing. I have had access to aircraft familiarization courses, CATIA V5 training, HyperWorks training, Fleet management training. I have developed interpersonal skills through presenting to senior management and large audiences, hosting meetings both in-person and virtual, and project management.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
1/5
The induction process for the scheme was smooth and team building exercises were well structured. The majority of the scheme has been poorly organised where communication has been insufficient, college / uni details were left very last minute, and similarly with the EPA process. The NVQ was poorly managed and it felt there was not a lot of initial information provided.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
2/5
My mentor was very supportive throughout the whole scheme and offered some great advice, they were approachable and dedicated to me achieving my goals. My training manager was approachable, but it felt there was no clear ownership over the scheme where it felt it was delegated to Yeovil College to manage. The general attitude towards supporting me was good, where the company clearly wanted me to succeed, individual support was good.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The training providers were very supportive throughout the scheme and wanted their students to succeed, Yeovil College were invested in the Leonardo apprentices and attempted to make the course as enjoyable as possible - despite setbacks in staffing. Plymouth Uni were very supportive, providing additional tutor sessions and help when needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
The HND Aeronautical Engineering had modules that were very much tailored to help me perform in my job role - CAD, Aerodynamics etc. The BEng was quite generic and an actual aerospace degree would've been more beneficial for my job role and understanding. A lot of time was spent on Composite units - something that I've rarely come across in my placements.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There are social activities organised by the Agusta Westland Apprentice Society, and there are institutions that host professional networking events regularly. It does become difficult to integrate fully into a team however, due to continuous 6 month rotations. There should be more focus on sports within the company. There are a lot of charity events and company events that you can gain exposure in.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Leonardo to a friend?
Yes
Why?
There are great opportunities to develop initially as an engineer. Most work is valuable and beneficial and the people are very helpful. Being able to rotate around departments is very useful in gaining a wide range of skills and knowledge, whilst putting you out of your comfort zone to aid in continuous development.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Leonardo?
I would advise anyone to be responsible for their own development and not rely on others to do so. I would recommend thoroughly researching the various roles to ensure you pick what is best for you. I would've like to have undergone an engineering course prior to joining, as I joined without any prior knowledge which made it particularly difficult.
