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We are delighted Scott, Palintest’s Electronics Technician, has successfully completed his apprenticeship in advanced Engineering Manufacturing and has also achieved a 1st Class Hons degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BEng) from Newcastle University Centre.
We caught up with Scott to find out a bit more about what it was like gaining these qualifications whilst working at Palintest.
“I have completed an apprenticeship in advanced Engineering Manufacture. I then went on to achieved a BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Newcastle University Centre.”
“It took me about 3 years to complete my apprenticeship. It began with day release for several months where I was taught electrical and mechanical safety/basic skills at the TDR training facility. The following two years consisted mostly of online learning where I would give detailed answers to a plethora of questions relating to the field of engineering, focusing on safety.
Finally, I had to complete three practical assessments where a TDR assessor visited Palintest and observed me carrying out tasks, highlighting the skills I had learned.”
“I wanted to do an apprenticeship because I did not enjoy traditional schooling , so A-levels were not something I wanted to go on and do. Instead, I went to college and achieved a level 3 in Electronic Engineering which opened the door to higher level apprenticeships. My aim was to complete a degree or HNC as part of this.”
“Throughout my time here, flexibility has been the most valuable skill I have developed. It is important to be able to adapt and solve issues as they happen to keep production running smoothly. I have also gained many technical skills such as soldering, PCB design, diagnosis of electronic faults, 3D CAD, and countless others! Becoming a jack of all trades is certainly desirable for the role I am in.”
Scott in 2017 during his apprenticeship
“There are many aspects of the apprenticeship that I have found enjoyable – namely working with those in my team and learning from them. The opportunity to attend university on day release has made my time here more enjoyable and it mixed up my day to day activities. Learning new skills and technologies has kept the experience fresh and engaging! ”
“In the short term I would like to take on a role as a design engineer and further develop particular skills to a much higher level. Advancing in areas like C Coding and schematic design are going to be crucial to achieve my career goals.
In the long term, I would like to stay in the realm of R&D and develop new products and technologies. Leading a team or department is the ‘end goal’ but would like to prove myself as an engineer and a play larger roles in projects.”
“The best thing about working at Palintest is the culture. There is a sense of comradery within teams but interdepartmentally also. Working with people whose company you enjoy has a huge influence on job satisfaction as a whole!”
“My experience as an apprentice has been an excellent one, achieving a degree qualification and developing vital skills needed to become a design engineer. The support of the company has been crucial in accomplishing this. The best advice I could give is to find an organisation offering further development, one that wants to mould you into a great engineer through formal and on the job training.”
Scott has done an excellent job, this is what Kevin McDermott, his manager, had to say
“It’s been great to be a part of Scott’s development throughout his time at Palintest. The fantastic results he has achieved are testament to his hard work and dedication. He is a valued member of the team and we are all very proud of him – Well done Scott!”
We also spoke to Wayne, Scott’s assessor
“Scott was a brilliant apprentice. He always worked to a high level and this has been proven by not only completing his BTEC with Double Distinction but moving on to degree level. The main thing that really came through was his immediate ability to perform in the work environment repairing and testing electronics. His knowledge of electrical engineering is excellent, and he is just getting started. I would not be surprised if I came back one day to induct new apprentices and he was a Manager. He will be a great role model for future apprentices. I am immensely proud of him and his achievements, it’s just a shame that I could not shake his hand due to Covid.”
