Job role?
Electronics Technician Apprentice
When did you start at STFC?
I began my apprenticeship journey in August 2023.
Summary of your job?
I'm an Electronics Technician apprentice at the UK Astronomy Technology Centre, mixing college studies with some really interesting work on-site. A part of what I do is taking schematics and actually physically building and wiring the product up, this can involve an array of skills like soldering, hand fitting, etc. Testing to make sure everything's working as expected is also a big part of it. Right now, I have started on-site near the end of the MOONS project and getting ready to start on HARMONI. I also get to help out in different departments, which is great for seeing all the different pieces of a project come together. It's a good mix of learning in class and then putting it into action, which is teaching me a lot about how things work in the real world of electronics.
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
My decision to do an apprenticeship was really driven by a genuine passion for engineering and interest in the space industry. I was excited by the prospect of being able to learn and work simultaneously. It's not just about being part of scientific advancement; it's about being hands-on with the technology that makes it happen. This apprenticeship has been the perfect blend of my interests, allowing me to immerse myself in the practical aspects of engineering while contributing to huge projects. With an apprenticeship even after you finish college; you might stop education but you'll never stop learning.
What have been the benefits?
It has allowed me to apply my passion for electronics to real applications in astronomy tech, which gives a blend of learning and direct contribution to significant projects. The support from my mentors and managers has been incredible. They have guided me through my academic journey since the start of the year and have continued to provide a lot of support and guidance since my return on-site.
Why would you recommend it to others?
I recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is passionate about diving into their field of interest and eager to learn. It's a fantastic way to gain practical experience while being part of amazing technological developments. The mentorship and support at STFC are particularly noteworthy, as they truly enhance the learning experience for a smooth transition from academic learning to practical work.
Why work as an apprentice at STFC?
Choosing to work as an apprentice at STFC was an easy decision for me. Despite being a large organisation, STFC offers a welcoming and supportive environment that's conducive to both personal and professional growth. The myriad opportunities available here is truly remarkable. From the innovative projects to the incredible support network, every aspect of STFC makes it an ideal place for an apprentice like myself. The learning process here is easy, aided by the diverse and culturally rich workplace where everyone has something valuable to teach and a willingness to learn from others. This dynamic setting helps my development in technical skills and also enriches my understanding of different perspectives and approaches in the field. Being part of STFC means being part of a community where growth, learning, and contribution go hand in hand.
What has been your proudest moment as an apprentice?
Even though I'm relatively new to my apprenticeship, a standout moment for me was drawing my first design using Visio. Having never used the software before, it was both challenging and fun to learn it on the job and successfully design a component for a system that contributes to a project, receiving feedback from my manager allowed me to understand the process a lot more. This achievement, albeit early in my career, showed the value of learning and adapting quickly.
