Published 10 Feb 2022

DE&S is celebrating its talented workforce during National Apprenticeship Week (Feb 7-13). Each day up to Friday we are featuring case studies from across the business. Hear from Stefan Mills, who is using his love of numbers and problem-solving during his Digital Technology Degree Apprenticeship…

Stefan Mills’ apprenticeship combines his love of numbers and problem solving.

The 18-year-old is one of the first cohort of Digital Technology Degree Apprentices at DE&S, which involves both cyber security and software engineering.

Stefan said: “I chose the apprenticeship route because I felt like I wanted the opportunity to work and learn at the same time.

“I’ve always been attracted to computers and numbers. I love problem solving and I’m a big fan of logical problems.”

During the first year of his four-year apprenticeship he pupil goes to college one day per week. If successful, come the end of it he will receive a BSc Hons degree in Digital and Technology Solutions as well as having the chance to start a full-time Level 2 post at DE&S.

“This is the first year DE&S has run my specific scheme,” he said. “In that sense it’s quite exciting because I feel like we’re the pioneers of the scheme. We’re kind of setting the standard.”

“One of the main benefits at DE&S is the reach of the organisation,” Stefan added. “There’s quite a lot of opportunity to work with other companies, such as Rolls Royce, BAE Systems and Babcock. I also enjoy the fact we’re encouraged to learn different skills and given the freedom to learn.

“At DE&S you will get the best treatment, you are looked after and supported. You can take a lot of satisfaction in the work you do because you’re responsible for the defence of the country, working for the people. I feel that gives you a lot of pride in what you do.

“In a few years’ time I’m looking forward to looking back on how I’ve progressed. Hopefully I’ll travel to different places in the country as part of my job and see some of the different equipment as well as the different areas of the Ministry of Defence, because it’s a nationwide organisation.”