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I felt that doing the EngTech qualification during my placement year was a clear first step to this goal, as well as showing that I was serious about this goal to any potential employers once I graduate.
The process was straightforward, and I had plenty of help from my mentor at work. There is also plenty of advice on the IMechE website and my university Year in Industry team ran a couple of presentations on the topic.
I first looked at the UK spec, then used an excel spreadsheet to make sure I had ticked off all the criteria. I had previously made sure to keep a document logging all my Continuous Personal Development (CPD) activities to help with this. From this I worked through the application form on the website, alongside a help sheet on the IMechE website that split up the three main questions into twelve or more smaller questions.
I did all this across about several months, just doing a little bit whenever I had free time for CPD. Although it could be done much quicker, I took my time as I started the process early in the placement so I could focus on what parts of work I was lacking in my application. For a sponsor I asked my line manager since he was accredited with the IMechE.
A wide range of examples were used in my application. This started with writing up information about the MATLAB project I had been working on for the mass properties calculations at work. Then for the second part I moved onto work I have done at university with Engineers Without Borders Sheffield. However, I realised any example of work is useful, so I even included details about how I helped my friend at a different university with the electronics revision he was stuck on.

Being one of the first Apprentices to apply for this after passing my End Point Assessment was exciting as I was part of a group that would trial the application process and work closely with the Early Careers team to identify areas of support that may be required for future cohorts. I found the application process to be well structured with many informative resources readily available to aid each element of the application. Professional accreditation widens your network, boosts personal and professional development, increases personal confidence and resilience, and enhances your knowledge of opportunities available only to those registered with an awarding body.

During my placements at BAE Systems, my knowledge of Professional Registration and its importance grew as I was frequently exposed to qualified and experienced accredited Engineers. EngTech status is internationally recognised as it demonstrates Engineering understanding and competency. I have aspirations to grow both personally and professionally during my career, as part of this I aim to become Chartered; EngTech is the first milestone to achieving this so I feel proud to have acquired this so early into my career.

I liaise with customers and suppliers as part of my current job role, therefore, internationally recognised accreditation is vital to ensure I can prove my level of qualification and Engineering competence in addition to building trust with those I work with. IMechE provides support and allows me to feel as though I am part of an organisation outside of my workplace. I encourage everyone to become Professionally Registered in their relevant field!