Speaker: Malik S., Systems Engineer Associate, GDIT
Malik S.
General Dynamics Informational Technology
Why did you choose an apprenticeship?
Malik S.: As a recent graduate of Jackson State University, I chose the apprenticeship to further my knowledge in computer engineering, computer software and mainframe programming.
What did you do before your apprenticeship?
Malik S.: Before doing the apprenticeship, I was a recent graduate of Jackson State University. I was majoring in electrical engineering and I have recently just accepted a system engineer position for GDIT General Dynamics Information Technology. The apprenticeship was a propelling unit to propel me into the corporate world so that I may seek new knowledge and have a better understanding of computer engineering, software learning and mainframe.
What has your apprenticeship been like?
Malik S.: My experience with the apprenticeship has been great. It has been nothing short of exceptional. The best part about the apprenticeship was being able to interact and be able to be on zoom calls and different meetings with different associates that have just absolutely wonderful experience in the programming world in the mainframe world. And as far as computer engineering, just being able to connect with those individuals ask questions and learn was the best overall part.
How has your Franklin Success Coach helped you?
Malik S.: My Success Coach, Tim Fry has been an absolute great help. Some areas that he has helped me in would be online learning skills, time management, corporate knowledge, setting goals for myself and being able to reach and attain them and also just being a resourceful engineer. I know that Tim Fry has really set me up to be a successful guy in the corporate world and he has overall made me a better man and a better working guy in this experience. I really, I really appreciate his help and I feel like the Success Coach position is so vital for a new apprenticeship coming in. And I feel like if you have a great Success Coach, you have a great experience and they are, they are truly amazing.
What would you tell other people considering an apprenticeship?
Malik S.: I would tell other people considering their apprenticeship to definitely do it. I feel like the apprenticeship can really propel you as far as going into your first job and going straight out of college. I think it is a great opportunity and I'm really glad that there's an opportunity like that out there for many other engineers and other great minds. Definitely going in with open mind, open heart and wanting to put in a great amount of work and do not shy away from putting in the work and be very goal oriented. Make sure that you are bettering yourself during an apprenticeship because the apprenticeship is gonna be there, you know, every day. It's up to you to come, willing to work and willing to learn and willing to be great and willing to better yourself.
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