A little about Maria's apprenticeship…
Apprenticeship Title
Level 3 Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering - Mechatronic Maintenance Technician
Job title and employer
Engineering Apprentice at MARS Wrigley
What are 3 skills you’ve learned so far?
Confidence
How to use machine tools
How to be more open minded
What are 3 interests outside of work?
Painting
Shopping
Binge watching crime shows
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What inspired you to choose an apprenticeship as your next step?
During sixth form I was fortunate to have teachers who encouraged students to research into other routes and not just take the traditional university pathway. This led me to find the apprenticeship scheme MARS offers. The aspect that made me know for sure that this course was for me, was the ratio of hands-on real life training, to college theory training. Throughout the application process I had a very supportive form tutor who helped me weigh out my options and helped me devise a trusty pros and cons list, which confirmed my decision to do an apprenticeship.
What kinds of things do you get up to in your role? Any tasks you especially enjoy?
My role is really diverse and unique, driven on inquisitiveness. An example of a job I really enjoy doing is taking apart an assembly and looking into how they interact to make the component work. More specifically, I have taken apart a bevel gearbox. This consisted of using my experience with tools and taking pictures so I fully understand how to correctly put it back together. I used a hydraulic press and bearing pushers which enhances my understanding for when to use the equipment and my knowledge of how the gearbox works and what the most common errors are that could occur, and what can be done to prevent them.
"I really enjoy how my apprenticeship brings out my curiosity and I am able to strip complex components apart and rebuild them while enhancing my learning."
What’s been the standout highlight of your apprenticeship so far?
The highlight of my apprenticeship is seeing my personal progress. Over the last year I have grown and learnt so much. From financial independence to self-discipline and time management. I am incredibly grateful to be in the position I am in.
Have you come up against any challenges during your apprenticeship, and how did you navigate them?
Of course I have made mistakes and faced challenges as an apprentice, this is required in order to learn. When I face a challenge, I usually like to break down the problem and take it one step at a time. It’s also important to use all the support from my mentors and managers.
What’s helped you feel supported during your apprenticeship?
Throughout my apprenticeship, I have felt immense support from my managers and mentors. They constantly remind me to reach out if I have any concerns or problems.
"As someone who came into the apprenticeship with no tools or experience, I have never felt intimidated to ask questions or ask for help."
What moment made you realise you’d made the right decision choosing an apprenticeship?
3 months into my apprenticeship I had a moment were my mentor entrusted me to do jobs by myself that we had previously done together. This continued throughout my placement and I was able to take on the responsibility and take lead in certain roles.
Connect with Maria!
Here at Visionpath, our Ambassador Community is more than just a network, it’s a movement. Our ambassadors are current and former apprentices who are passionate about making a difference by sharing their real-life journeys to inspire the next generation.
Are you a current or former apprentice who wants to get involved in the movement? Email ambassadors@visionpath.co.uk to get started.
