My name is Jennifer, and I’m a Software Engineering Degree Apprentice starting my tech career in the aerospace sector. My role involves designing, developing and maintaining software systems while learning on the job through my apprenticeship.

How I found my way into tech

When I was younger, I never imagined I’d end up working in technology. I actually wanted to be an author - I loved writing, storytelling and anything creative.

Everything changed during one of my GCSE computer science lessons, when we watched a documentary about hacking and saw just how powerful technology can be, both for good and for harm. That moment opened my eyes to a completely different future.

From there, I chose to continue studying Computer Science at A-level, which eventually led me to explore degree apprenticeships in technology. When I was deciding what to do after A-levels, I did consider university. But I learn best by doing, and the hands-on experience of an apprenticeship felt like the right fit for my learning style - something I knew I couldn’t pass up.

Getting my apprenticeship became a real turning point. It opened the door to practical experience in the tech industry and showed me that this path was possible for me.

A typical day as a Software Engineering Degree Apprentice

My day usually starts around 8am, when I arrive, check emails and messages, and get my workspace ready for the day ahead. By 8:30, I’m focused on my main task.

Recently, I’ve been working on improving how efficiently a system operates. It already works, but it’s been highlighted that it could run much faster - so I’m currently figuring out how to make that happen. Solving problems like this is a big part of my role.

I regularly use programming languages such as C and Python, and I’ve recently learned LabVIEW and gained a qualification in it. Reaching that milestone felt like a big achievement and reminded me how quickly you can grow when you’re learning on the job.

Around midday, I take a lunch break and catch up with other apprentices from different departments. It’s a chance to step away from the screen, share what we’re learning and reset before the afternoon.

After lunch, there's a mix of independent focus and collaboration, with meetings, training sessions and time spent testing software alongside concentrated coding work. That balance keeps each day varied and helps me keep developing both technically and professionally.

One of the moments I enjoy most is finishing a task, especially a programming task. There’s something really satisfying about seeing your program finally work the way it should.

By 4pm, the day wraps up - and I almost always leave knowing I’ve learned something new. That constant learning is what I enjoy most about working in technology and what makes the role feel so rewarding.

The biggest misconception about working in tech

A lot of people think AI is going to replace jobs in technology.

From my experience, that isn’t true. Instead, we’re learning how to use AI to become more productive and efficient in our roles. Technology is evolving rather than disappearing, and that makes it an exciting field to be part of.

Challenges I've had to overcome

One of the biggest challenges in my journey wasn’t technical - it was convincing my parents that a career in technology could be stable and successful.

They come from a more traditional background and weren’t sure this path would be secure, especially for someone like me. But believing in my passion and securing my apprenticeship helped show that this was a real and valuable opportunity.

Advice for girls exploring tech careers

The most important quality in my role isn’t knowing everything already - it’s being curious and willing to learn. Starting an apprenticeship can feel daunting because you’re stepping into something new, but asking questions, staying open and trusting the learning process makes all the difference.

My biggest advice is simple:

Just do it.

If you feel passionate about technology, that interest is there for a reason. We need more young women becoming pioneers in tech, and there is absolutely space for you here.

Why apprenticeships can be an amazing path

Choosing an apprenticeship has already opened so many doors for me, and I know there are still more ahead. Through an apprenticeship, you can gain real experience in the workplace, earn a salary while you learn, achieve recognised qualifications, and build a direct pathway into careers like software engineering.

Most importantly, you realise something powerful: A future in tech is possible.

Curious about a future in tech?

If Jennifer’s story has inspired you, you can explore your own path into technology with Next Tech Girls. We share:

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