Ross Frew, Structural Draughtsman, BAE Systems Surface Fleet Solutions

BAE Systems Surface Fleet Solutions works with partners and customers to deliver surface warship Through Life Capability Management (TLCM) to the UK and export customers.

It is involved with every stage of the maritime capability lifecycle, from concept through design, manufacture and in-service support to regeneration and disposal.

What does your job entail?

"As a structural draughtsman my job entails the computerised 3D modelling and creation of manufacturing drawings relating to all aspects of a naval ship's hull and internal structure. My initial responsibilities involve manipulating design information to devise an appropriate build method and fabrication sequence, which is then progressed to the modelling stage where a three dimensional representation of the ship's structure is created using computer aided design. This model is then used as a basis for creating manufacturing drawings for use by production when assembling the ship's structure and is also the main feed for automated CAM systems, such as plasma burning machines, bar cutters or panel line welders."

What qualifications and training do you have to enable you do the work?

"I applied for a place on the modern apprenticeship programme in 2003 by responding to a newspaper advertisement. I was then invited to attend an assessment day where numerical, verbal and mechanical aptitude tests where completed. Following successful completion of the assessments, I was invited to attend a formal interview and was subsequently offered a place on a four year training programme, which was completed in August 2007. So I have four years' training experience right now."

In which branch of the armed forces are your skills utilised?

"The Royal Navy."

What challenges and difficulties do you face on a day-to-day basis?

"The primary challenges I face relate to the correct extraction and use of technical information. Due to the nature and timescale of shipbuilding, customer requirements are constantly developing as new technologies and systems become available. This results in a constantly maturing design, which may be subject to significant change on a number of occasions before a final solution is met. The knock-on effect of this dynamic design process is a wealth of information constantly being superseded by more mature and up-to-date details and it is a fundamental requirement that the most recent design details are sought out and used. Additional challenges relate to the stringent deadlines associated with the shipbuilding industry. There are a number of high profile deadlines that must be met and these can have a direct effect on your working day. Examples of such deadlines that can affect employees within a naval shipyard are first 'cut in steel' dates, launch days, sea trials and final handovers."

How do you feel your job benefits the Royal Navy?

"The tasks I undertake on a daily basis benefit the Royal Navy by helping to provide them with world class warships that are second-to-none with regards to technology and capability. The ships we are currently providing are set to replace an ageing fleet of destroyers and carriers and will enable the navy to carry out their tasks more effectively, whilst providing better conditions for crew than there has ever been before."