Elliot at work during his apprenticeship

Hello, I’m Elliott, and I’m excited to share my journey as a degree apprentice at Bournemouth University, employed by Draken. I recently won the Dorset Apprenticeship Award for 2024 which was an incredible honour, and in this blog, I would like to reflect on the experiences and the opportunities that have shaped my path.

Before the Apprenticeship

I first met Draken at an airshow when I was 8 and that is where my journey began! Initially, I studied for Level 3 engineering qualification at Brockenhurst College. After which I subsequently joined as an aircraft apprentice at Draken. Recognising my keen interest in electronic warfare and mission systems, both Draken and Bournemouth University supported the creation of a bespoke apprenticeship pathway tailored to my interests and my career goals.

Embracing the Apprenticeship

Choosing the degree apprenticeship was a natural progression for me. It offered the ideal balance of “earning while learning”, allowing me to gain practical experience alongside the pursuit of my academic studies. It’s a challenging journey, as most of the work is self-driven, but the rewards are immense. Not only do you gain practical experience, but you also build valuable relationships and networks within the industry.

One of the greatest benefits of this apprenticeship has been the mentorship and support from experienced professionals in the field. This guidance has been crucial for my development, helping me to transition from a traditional apprenticeship to a specialised degree pathway. The hands-on experience that I’ve gained is invaluable, providing me with insights which can’t be learned in a classroom alone.

Career Progression and Achievements

Elliot at the Dorset Apprenticeship Awards

Over the past four years at Draken, I’ve progressed from a degree apprentice to an Electronic Warfare Specialist within the Mission Systems Maintenance Department. Draken is renowned for the advanced combat readiness training that it provides to frontline forces, notably from the US, the UK and the NATO alliance. This has provided a dynamic and challenging environment for my growth.

A highlight of my apprenticeship was being tasked with building and manufacturing a new style of electronic warfare pod at the end of 2022. This project aimed to enhance our threat simulation and training capabilities and recently concluded with the successful introduction of six new airborne electronic warfare systems. I was responsible for the electrical wiring, software integration, manufacture, mechanical assembly, and testing of these systems. I really enjoyed working on this project and felt my focus and technical ability was a testament to the skills and knowledge gained through my apprenticeship.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, I am excited about the future and the opportunities that await me. After four years of part-time study at Bournemouth University, I am now a qualified Mission Systems Maintenance Engineer, specialising in Electronic Warfare. While my academic journey continues, the skills I’ve developed at work have been instrumental in my growth both as an engineer and as a person.

Final Thoughts

My apprenticeship has shown me the unique benefits of combining academic study with real-world experience. As I prepare to graduate from Bournemouth University next year, I hope my story will inspire future apprentices to pursue their passions and leverage the life-changing opportunities that degree apprenticeships offer.

At BU we are keen to talk to more employers about creating opportuniities for your workforce.  If you would like to contact our specialist apprenticeship team email us apprenticeships@bournemouth.ac.uk

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Apprenticeships at Bournemouth University