From textbooks to turbines

A group of Siemens apprentices took their first step from the classroom to the turbine hall recently as part of a week-long exercise to prepare them for careers supporting power generation across the world.. Since joining Siemens last September the group of apprentice engineers have been combining their theoretical learning at Tyne Metropolitan College in North Tyneside with practical on the job training at the Chapel Cross turbine at Siemens in Newcastle.  Named the week@work initiative, the practical hands on training has helped the apprentices develop and road test their new- found skills. 
Historic turbine supports training programme

The Chapel Cross Turbine

Mark Armstrong, a former apprentice and now Head of the Siemens Newcastle Service Facility, explains: “The Chapel Cross Turbine was actually manufactured on this site in the early fifties and formed part of the power generation at the Chapel Cross Power Station for over 50 years. Once the station closed we were keen to give the turbine a new home where it could help support our training programme and help our apprentices get a better understanding of turbine operations in a power station.

“Despite technology moving on significantly since the turbine was first manufactured, the basic principles of turbine power generation remain the same, even today. The difference today is that when working on a power station now we’re able to utilise digital technology to analyse this equipment, record service information and even remotely diagnose issues, but the actual design of the turbine hasn’t drastically changed.

 

“With over 30 apprentices currently undergoing training in servicing turbines and generators, it’s a fantastic resource for trainees. We also use the kit to support upskilling and training packages with experiences employees and contractors too.”

Career development

Apprenticeships: standing you in good stead for the rest of your career

Michael Young is one of the first year apprentices who took part in the week@work said: “I joined Siemens in September and then have been mostly based at Tyneside Metropolitan College so the chance to experience a week working and learning about turbines and the energy market is brilliant. “It’s also fascinating to hear about other Siemens businesses and the career paths that completing an apprenticeship can lead to. Darren Davidson, our new Managing Director started his career as an apprentice on this site when he was 16."
It’s great to know that Siemens values the skills you learn during an apprenticeship and that it can stand you in good stead for the rest of your career.”
Michael Young, Apprentice at Siemens in Newcastle
Apprenticeships

Interested in an apprenticeship at Siemens?

Apprenticeships are a great way for us to turn today’s talented young people into the experts we need tomorrow. Whether you’re interested in Engineering, Business Administration or Finance, we have opportunities for you.  

 

We have more than 500 apprentices at Siemens in total and, with over 14,000 people working in the UK, you’ll play an important part in everyday life here. It’s why nearly all of our apprentices go on to secure permanent roles once they finish.

 

Apprenticeships