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BAE or Amazon

I was seeking advice on apprenticeships I have applied for. I have been offered a level 4 mechatronic engineering apprenticeship at Amazon in the city where I live, but have been offered to go to an assessment centre for an Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Technician apprenticeship in a completely different city. The BAE opportunity would mean potentially moving to the city as commuting time isn't viable from where I live. I'm not sure what the starting pay for BAE is but the pay for amazon starts in the late 20,000s.

Of course the Amazon opportunity is a guarantee at the moment and closer to where I live, but does anyone think it's worth going for the BAE one anyway (despite the distance)? Is one opportunity "better" than the other in terms of career progression/work culture?

I'm really interested in breaking into engineering and would like to eventually work towards a degree level afterwards (both of these are advanced level/level 4).

Just wondering if anyone from either company had any advice as both opportunities seem great to me.

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Original post
by mk2009112
I was seeking advice on apprenticeships I have applied for. I have been offered a level 4 mechatronic engineering apprenticeship at Amazon in the city where I live, but have been offered to go to an assessment centre for an Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Technician apprenticeship in a completely different city. The BAE opportunity would mean potentially moving to the city as commuting time isn't viable from where I live. I'm not sure what the starting pay for BAE is but the pay for amazon starts in the late 20,000s.
Of course the Amazon opportunity is a guarantee at the moment and closer to where I live, but does anyone think it's worth going for the BAE one anyway (despite the distance)? Is one opportunity "better" than the other in terms of career progression/work culture?
I'm really interested in breaking into engineering and would like to eventually work towards a degree level afterwards (both of these are advanced level/level 4).
Just wondering if anyone from either company had any advice as both opportunities seem great to me.

Both these companies hold a very strong reputation for the roles they have offered. Amazon is more known and famous worldwide so will open more career door opportunities when it is on your CV.

Be aware that the roles specialize in slightly different fields: Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary field that combines mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and control engineering whilst AMTs are specialized technicians who inspect, repair, and maintain aircraft to ensure their safety and airworthiness. You should think about what field of engineering you want to go in, aerospace or electromechanical.

I myself am trying to get into a level 6 apprenticeship for eletrical/electronic/nuclear engineering, and I decided to aim for these fields as I much more enjoy and pfefer these areas in A level Physics comapred to the other topics. Currently I've got an offer from AIRBUS but I'm trying to get an offer from something more nearby as relocating can be a real pain. I recommend you go to the assesment centre and learn more about the role, if you can't decide which field you more like then don't worry, I recomend going to Amazon and trying out the role to see if you like it, there's no harm leaving an apprenticeship - just don't mention that in interviews🙂.

In terms of work culture you can consider these:
Amazon - Mechatronic Engineering Apprenticeship

Pros:

Diverse Projects: Amazon is involved in a wide range of technological advancements, from robotics in their warehouses to software and hardware development.

Innovation: Amazon is known for being a leader in innovation, so you'll likely work on cutting-edge projects.

Career Growth: There are many opportunities for career advancement within a large, global company.

Skill Development: You'll gain skills in mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, which are highly versatile.

Cons:

Large Corporation: Working in a large corporation can sometimes feel impersonal.

Work Environment: Depending on the role, the work environment can be fast-paced and demanding.

BAE Systems - Aircraft Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship

Pros:

Specialized Skills: You'll develop highly specialized skills in aircraft maintenance, which can be very rewarding.

Job Stability: The aerospace industry often provides stable and long-term career opportunities.

Team Environment: Working on aircraft often involves close teamwork, which can be very fulfilling.

Technical Expertise: BAE Systems is a leader in aerospace and defense, giving you the chance to work with some of the best in the industry.

Cons:

Specific Focus: The skills you develop may be more specialized and focused on the aerospace industry.

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