01-11-2019
Name: Ryan Wilkinson
Position: Apprentice Engineer
How long have you been in your role?
In September 2018, I started my City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Knowledge of Electronic Security & Emergency Systems apprenticeship. In my first year I spent 3 days at work with Diamond Systems and 2 days at Belfast Met. I am in my second year now and spend 4 days at work and 1 day at the Met. In my first year, one of my days at the Met was theory based while the other day was practical, where I build my own alarm system and get to know the different components included in the system.
Describe a typical day?
When I am out at work with an engineer we have set jobs to complete throughout the day, ranging from intruder alarms to fire alarms, CCTV and access control. I am enjoying my work, and the most enjoyable aspect of my job is that every day is different, doing and learning different aspects. I think that this is important as I am learning various topics instead of just one.
How would you describe the culture within Diamond?
Focused on helping me to learn. In September 2019, as well as my NVQ, Diamond also offered me the chance to complete a secondary course with Belfast Met, this time specialising in Fire Detection and Alarm Systems. I attend this course on Thursday evenings. Doing this course broadens my knowledge on fire alarms, which is not covered as part of my NVQ L2.
What do you like most about your role?
I am happy to work for Diamond Systems as they have welcomed me into their company and are keen to help me learn.
