Platform Engineer Review
at IBM
Degree Apprenticeship
Sales, Software Engineering, Finance
Manchester, UK
Review Submitted: February 2025
Overall Rating
4.8 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As a Platform Engineer at IBM I work closely with clients to create what we call pilots. With a passion for both front-end and back-end development, I immerse myself in a diverse array of pilot projects, each culminating in a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). My responsibilities go beyond coding. I use my problem solving skills, effective communication and analytical abilities to understand the challenges and goals of our clients. By working I create and implement technical structures that not only meet expectations but also surpass them providing efficient and meaningful solutions.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
To a large extent, I appreciate the blend of university learning and practical work, offering the best of both worlds. Applying the skills gained during weekly university sessions to my work enhances my expertise. The robust support from both university and workplace enriches my overall experience, making it highly enjoyable!
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I've been able to develop so many skills to excel in my role as a platform engineer. In the past year I've passed a Red Hat exam to become a Certified Specialist in Containers which was an important area in my role. I've also been able to develop my presentation and speaking skills after taking part in an external talk with a colleague which was in a data science conference with over 1900 viewers live.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My schedule is finely tuned, balancing four workdays seamlessly with a dedicated university day. This structure allows me to extract maximum value from both aspects, ensuring I'm deeply engaged in projects. Unlike block-based programs, my preference for the once-a-week university attendance allows a dynamic rhythm and consistent focus on practical applications. This organised approach optimises my learning experience and project involvement.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
My Foundation Manager offers guidance on progress, work dynamics, and everything in between. My task manager provides support in daily work tasks, ensuring I am on track. Moreover, having a mentor is invaluable—they offer guidance, share insights, and are a constant source of assistance. This network of support has been instrumental, creating a collaborative environment that enriches my professional journey. There's a wealth of resources and wisdom available, making this experience truly rewarding.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
My university support is exceptional, with my Skills tutor at the forefront. We meet regularly, every two months, ensuring I stay on track and make progress toward my qualification. The tutors are consistently available, offering the necessary support for any student precisely when needed. Their commitment enhances the overall learning experience, providing a solid foundation for my academic journey.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The way things are planned out and the specialism itself gives you the chance to excel in the work you do on the job. For instance, the module we're currently working on has many transferrable skills even if the language we use to code at work is different, it's all about adapting to what you learn off the job!
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
There are so many ways to get involved, with the use of Slack it is so easy to set something up whether that is 5 aside, networking event, a lunch and learn, an after work social with the team. I myself have been going regularly to the after work 5 aside.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend IBM to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend IBM to a friend as a great place to work due to its rich history of innovation, global reach, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. IBM offers challenging and rewarding careers across a wide range of industries and technologies, as well as opportunities for growth and development.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to IBM?
1.) In the interview, you can prepare to walk them through what you listed in your cv, so any projects, roles, or challenges in your cv you can use as answers and use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) - Search this up, a great way these interview questions.
2.) Expect a mix of competency-based and behavioural questions, with some IBM-specific knowledge. a few examples below:
Competency (USE STAR): “Tell me about a time you resolved a conflict in a team.”
Behavioural (USE STAR): “How do you handle tight deadlines?”
IBM-specific (DO RESEARCH): “Why IBM?” or “How do you align with our focus on hybrid cloud/AI?” (Research IBM’s current priorities!)
They care less about technical jargon and more about your mindset (adaptability, curiosity, collaboration).
3.) Keep it clear, structured, and impactful—not overly technical. IBM values storytelling and results.
Structure: Problem → Your Approach → Outcome/Lessons Learned.
Detail: Enough to show your thought process, but avoid drowning in data. Use visuals (charts, diagrams) to simplify complex ideas.
Tip: Practice explaining it to a non-expert (e.g., a friend). If they “get it,” you’re sorted.
4.)Always research specific company values or initiatives beforehand to demonstrate alignment with the company culture, some of IBM:
Core Values: “Client success,” “innovation that matters,” “trust and responsibility.”
Initiatives: Sustainability (e.g., IBM’s “2030 Net Zero” goal), ethical AI (check IBM’s AI Ethics Board), or skills-for-all (e.g., IBM SkillsBuild).
Culture: Mention collaboration, diversity (e.g., their Be Equal campaign), or lifelong learning.
5.) Top tips...
Prep Like Crazy: Rehearse answers aloud (even awkwardly). The more you practice, the calmer you’ll feel.
Mock Interviews: Ask a friend to grill you—pressure helps normalise the stress.
2.) Expect a mix of competency-based and behavioural questions, with some IBM-specific knowledge. a few examples below:
Competency (USE STAR): “Tell me about a time you resolved a conflict in a team.”
Behavioural (USE STAR): “How do you handle tight deadlines?”
IBM-specific (DO RESEARCH): “Why IBM?” or “How do you align with our focus on hybrid cloud/AI?” (Research IBM’s current priorities!)
They care less about technical jargon and more about your mindset (adaptability, curiosity, collaboration).
3.) Keep it clear, structured, and impactful—not overly technical. IBM values storytelling and results.
Structure: Problem → Your Approach → Outcome/Lessons Learned.
Detail: Enough to show your thought process, but avoid drowning in data. Use visuals (charts, diagrams) to simplify complex ideas.
Tip: Practice explaining it to a non-expert (e.g., a friend). If they “get it,” you’re sorted.
4.)Always research specific company values or initiatives beforehand to demonstrate alignment with the company culture, some of IBM:
Core Values: “Client success,” “innovation that matters,” “trust and responsibility.”
Initiatives: Sustainability (e.g., IBM’s “2030 Net Zero” goal), ethical AI (check IBM’s AI Ethics Board), or skills-for-all (e.g., IBM SkillsBuild).
Culture: Mention collaboration, diversity (e.g., their Be Equal campaign), or lifelong learning.
5.) Top tips...
Prep Like Crazy: Rehearse answers aloud (even awkwardly). The more you practice, the calmer you’ll feel.
Mock Interviews: Ask a friend to grill you—pressure helps normalise the stress.
