Alastair studied Engineering with us at College and then progressed on to a Higher Apprentice scheme at BAE Systems. He now works as a Senior Engineer at BAE Systems and is really enjoying it.
Having spent a number of years working full time and returning to college at 23 years old, I was fairly certain that Engineering was the area that I wanted to go into. I didn't have much knowledge of the industry in Cumbria, but the college was engaged with employers throughout the area to make sure we were aware of the available jobs and progression routes, and to support us through the application processes. This made the process of graduating and assessing my options much clearer, when looking for the next steps in my career.
What did you enjoy most about your time at Kendal College? Best memories?
I most enjoyed the opportunities to use the machine shop and spend time learning manual and CNC skills from the tutors. My favourite memory was from the Engineering trip to Amsterdam where we visited the largest steam-powered pumping station still in operation today, and a company that was developing technology to 3D print houses.
What skills did you develop within your course at the college that you find useful in your present role?
I think that most of the skills that I learnt in college prepared me for work. Be that general IT, presentation and report writing skills, or more industry specific skills such as Mechanical and Electrical principles or Mathematics. College instils the skillsets required to find high quality employment so that you can continue to develop in industry or through Higher Education. I think everything that I learnt at college laid the foundations for the role that I do now.
Did you choose your career path with this occupation in mind?
I went to college knowing that I wanted to be a Mechanical Engineer but not in which discipline. Working with my tutors I was able to understand the businesses in the local area, the kind of roles that were available, and the routes to progress towards the roles that interested me. I was lucky to have a tutor that had experience in the discipline in which I now work, he was able to provide guidance and understanding of how to prepare for job applications and interviews.
Were you involved in any extracurricular activities?
I was involved in the Student Union as a class rep and also had a role as a Student Governor. These roles gave me additional exposure to real world situations through attendance at governor meetings and taking part in conversations about how to improve the college and student experiences. They are also useful things to put on your CV as they give good experiences to talk about at interviews.
Could you give us one or more career tips for the current students?
Take some time to look into your career options, there is often more out there than you think. If your chosen career path isn't within reach in the short term, look at things you can do to make it happen. I had been in full time work for 7 years before I went to college, and it felt a little bit like a step backwards at the time going into full time education again, but it was the best decision I made as it significantly enhanced my career opportunities and personal life.
What would you say to a person who is thinking of studying at the college?
Have an idea of what you want to do, find the right course, and go for it.
What have you been up to since completing your course with us?
After leaving Kendal College, I completed a Higher Apprentice scheme at BAE Systems, working through several placements around the business including Quality Control, Test and Commissioning, Various Engineering Disciplines, and an external placement with the Weapons Systems UK business unit. I completed a HNC and Level 4 NVQ over the 3 years, and even received a regional apprentice award from Make UK. The business fully funded my qualifications and paid me an engineer's salary at the same time.
Now, I am working at BAE Systems in Engineering as a Senior Engineer. I completed my BENG(Hons) degree in Mechanical Engineering in July 2024 and have been working as an Engineer since September 2020 when I finished a 3-year Higher Apprenticeship scheme. The role that I do is varied and technical, and I am really settled in the area. In the near future, I hope to achieve Engineering Chartership with support from the business and my mentor. I have no plans to move on in the near future and only really have aspirations to continue to develop and progress in my current role.
