Are you passionate about flying and all things aerospace? This industry is not just fascinating, it’s also extraordinarily profitable. The global aerospace market is expected to more than double in size to $678 billion by 2032. So, for those starting out in aircraft engineering apprenticeship, there’s a wide range of career growth opportunities and paths to career success.
In this blog, we’ll explore the various types of aircraft engineering apprenticeships available and what you can expect from each. Of course, we’ll also tell you how you can apply for aircraft engineering apprenticeships so you can kickstart your career right away!
Why Choose Aircraft Engineering Apprenticeships
Before we get down to the nitty-gritty, let’s take a moment to highlight the range of benefits that come from an apprenticeship in aircraft engineering:
- Hands-on experience: Aircraft engineering apprenticeships provide you with practical skills directly applicable to the workplace.
- Earn while you learn: As an apprentice, you’ll receive a salary so you can support yourself financially while training. Some apprenticeships even offer free meals and subsidised accommodation.
- No student debt: Unlike university education, apprenticeships typically don’t involve tuition fees.
- Strong job prospects: The aviation industry is always in need of skilled engineers, ensuring good employment opportunities post-apprenticeship.
Aircraft Engineering Apprenticeships UK
Depending on your preferences, there are different aircraft engineer apprenticeships available.
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Apprenticeships
Airframe and Propulsion
If you’re fascinated by the mechanical heart of an aircraft, an apprenticeship in airframe and propulsion might be for you. This path focuses on the structural and mechanical aspects, including engines, landing gear, and other critical systems.
Avionics
For those with a knack for electronics, avionics apprenticeships specialise in the electronic systems that keep aircraft flying safely. This includes navigation, communication, and instrumentation systems.
Apprenticeship Standards:
Aerospace Manufacturing Apprenticeships
Machining
Precision is key in aircraft manufacturing. Apprenticeships in machining involve using state-of-the-art machine tools to create vital aircraft components with laser accuracy.
Composites
As aircraft materials evolve, composites have become increasingly important. This apprenticeship focuses on the production and repair of these advanced materials, which are lighter and stronger than traditional options.
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Aircraft Technician Apprenticeships
Fitting and Assembly
Building an aircraft is like assembling a giant, complex puzzle. Fitting and assembly apprenticeships involve putting together the various parts and systems to create a fully functional aircraft.
Electrical and Mechanical Systems
These apprenticeships cover the installation and maintenance of all the electrical and mechanical systems within an aircraft, ensuring everything operates smoothly and safely.
Avionics Technician Apprenticeships
Specialising in the electronic systems of aircraft, avionics technician apprenticeships involve diagnostic testing, fault finding, and repairing electronic components. This role is crucial for maintaining the sophisticated technology that modern aircraft rely on.
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Design and Development Apprenticeships
Aerospace Design Engineer
For those who dream of creating the aircraft of the future, aerospace design engineer apprenticeships focus on the design and development of new components and systems. This is a highly creative role in which your imagination and technical skills will be put to the test.
CAD Technician
Computer-aided design (CAD) technicians play a vital role in the aircraft manufacturing process, using specialised software to create detailed technical drawings and plans.
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Quality and Inspection Apprenticeships
Aerospace Quality Engineer
Safety and performance are paramount in aviation. Aerospace quality engineer apprenticeships ensure all components meet rigorous standards, playing a critical role in the manufacturing process.
NDT Technician
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) technicians use advanced equipment to test materials and components without causing damage, ensuring they are fit for purpose and safe to use.
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Degree Apprenticeships
Aerospace Engineer Degree Apprenticeship
Combining practical work with academic study, this apprenticeship leads to a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering, providing a comprehensive education and hands-on experience.
Professional Engineering Degree Apprenticeship
Covering various engineering disciplines, including aerospace, these degree apprenticeships offer a broad-based education, preparing you for a wide range of engineering roles.
Apprenticeship Standard:
What Skills and Qualities Are Required?
If you want to be successful in aircraft engineering, you’ll need a combination of technical skills and personal qualities.
First and foremost, attention to detail is crucial in aviation. You’ll be responsible for ensuring every component and system meets stringent safety standards.
Secondly, problem-solving abilities are essential for diagnosing and fixing issues that arise during maintenance and manufacturing.
You’ll also need to work well in a team and have excellent communication skills. Apprentices collaborate from day one with other engineers, technicians, and specialists so you’ll quickly need to learn how to clearly convey technical information.
Finally, a solid understanding of physics and mathematics is fundamental for grasping the principles of aircraft design and operation.
What Training and Qualifications Will I Get?
During your apprenticeship, you’ll work towards several key qualifications:
- NVQs/SVQs: National or Scottish Vocational Qualifications relevant to your specific area of work.
- Technical Certificates: Such as BTEC Level 3 or Level 4 in Engineering.
- Professional Certifications: Depending on the apprenticeship, you might also work towards certifications from professional bodies like the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET).
- Degree: For degree apprenticeships, you’ll also earn a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a related field.
These qualifications are widely recognised within the industry and provide a strong foundation for your career.
Main Employers and Training Providers
Several prestigious employers and training providers offer comprehensive apprenticeship programmes in the UK.
Major manufacturing companies like BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Airbus, and the RAF provide complete training with a high probability of landing a permanent position on completion.
You can also find aircraft engineering apprenticeships directly with airlines like Ryanair, Jet2, Virgin Atlantic and British Airways.
Additionally, organisations like City & Guilds, EAL, and local further education colleges offer the necessary training and qualifications.
Conclusion
Aircraft engineering apprenticeships provide an exciting pathway into a dynamic and essential industry. Whether you’re drawn to the mechanics of airframes and propulsion, the precision of machining, or the innovation of design and development, there’s an apprenticeship to suit your interests and career goals.
The sky really is the limit!
Start your search for aircraft engineering apprenticeships now with the Employing an Apprentice job board.
As well as helping you with your apprenticeship search, we’ve also got plenty of useful help and advice for anyone considering enrolling in an apprenticeship. From reasons to start an apprenticeship to how to apply for one, we’ve got you covered with our dedicated guides.
Questions? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
Employers
Are you an apprentice employer? Here, at Employing an Apprentice, we offer support and guidance for employers in a whole range of areas.
This includes topics such as the benefits of employing an apprentice, how to access funding, finding an apprentice training provider, End Point Assessments, and much, much more.
Looking to recruit fresh talent to your aircraft engineering apprenticeship programmes? You can advertise your vacancy on our specialised apprenticeship jobs board today.
For more information, email us at info@employinganapprentice.com or give us a call at 0345 872 4501.
