Engineering without limits: Monty’s apprentice journey
How did you find your way to DE&S?
I was recommended the DE&S Engineering Advanced Apprenticeship by a close friend, and when I looked into the course, it stood out to me due to its excellent reputation and its vast number of different opportunities. I’m now in my final year of the apprenticeship scheme and it’s been a great opportunity for me to develop and apply my skills to exciting projects that supports UK Defence.
Where has your apprenticeship taken you? What has that experience been like?
As part of the scheme, you have several placements, giving you the opportunity to work on a wide range of different projects. For me personally, I’ve worked with the Type 23 Mechanical Engineering team, the Land Readiness Fleet (LRF) in Germany and the Voyager Delivery Team at RAF Brize Norton and MOD Abbey Wood. Each placement has broadened my understanding of Defence engineering across a variety of platforms, from naval systems to armoured vehicles, and military aviation.
What surprised you most about working in Defence engineering?
I was initially surprised by how demanding it is to maintain continuous airworthiness under different aviation authorities, whilst also adding modifications and resolving issues that require extensive documentation. Witnessing first-hand and assisting the effort in sustaining these systems has deepened my appreciation for engineering in the Defence sector.
“Where else could you work on ships, armoured vehicles, and aircraft all within the same organisation? The opportunities to learn and adapt are endless.”
– Monty, Engineering Apprentice
What's the most impressive technology you've worked with so far?
One of the most impressive systems was the Defensive Aids Sub-System (DASS) on Voyager called Large Aircraft Infrared Counter Measure (LAIRCM). It is a detection system, which locates the threat of an incoming missile and then generates a high intensity laser to jam it. This level of innovation has been a highlight in my apprenticeship, reinforcing the importance of technology in modern Defence.
What's next for you as your apprenticeship draws to a close?
I’m now in the final year of my apprenticeship, completing my Higher National Certificate (HNC) and National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) while preparing for my next role. I'm hoping to join another team working with aircraft, where I can gain more experience in aerospace engineering. Within the next year, I plan to transition into a permanent position where I can focus on developing my knowledge and enhancing my skills further as an engineer.
What would you say to someone considering a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) career in Defence?
If you're interested in working with cutting-edge technology across a variety of environments, it's definitely worth considering. Where else could you work on ships, armoured vehicles, and aircraft all within the same organisation? The opportunities to learn and adapt are endless.
Ready to engineer your future? Explore our apprenticeship and graduate schemes and discover how you could be working on next-generation Defence technology.
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