3 reasons to consider an engineering apprenticeship

Providing an alternative to the increasing costs of university education, apprenticeships are becoming more and more popular. In fact, the UK government has committed itself to the ambitious target of delivering three million apprenticeships by 2020. As enthusiasts for the feats and innovations of engineering and technology, the Stone Junction team has put together three reasons for British school leavers to consider an apprenticeship in the exciting and ever-changing engineering industry.

1. It’s not all overalls and oily hands

The time has come for industry to dispel the misconceptions of men in hard hats. In the 21^st century, engineers do much more than operate industrial machinery. Engineering is critical to the way in which our world works. In the past decade alone, we’ve witnessed the introduction of 3D printing to mainstream healthcare, to create bionic body parts for amputees and paraplegics. Engineers also created the world’s most powerful x-ray telescope, enabling us to see the solar system in more detail than ever before and overwhelming advancements in the world of robotics and automation are responsible for the upcoming launch of self-driving cars. And this is only the beginning. With so many exciting projects and sectors to choose from, young people need to understand just how many doors engineering can open.

2. Engineering is global

Not only do engineers improve the world, but they have the opportunity to see it too. A career in engineering provides opportunities to travel and experience working life all over the globe. From the engineering marvels that create the city skyline of Dubai to the engineering projects taking place in some of the world’s most remote locations, the career and travel opportunities of an engineer are endless. What’s more, whether you yearn to see all seven continents or you are happy on home turf, engineering provides the financial stability for you to choose.

3. You’ll be hot property

In the United Kingdom, the manufacturing industry is on track for long term growth. However, the ongoing skills shortage in this sector means many employers are forced to seek talent internationally. Not only does international recruitment come at an expensive cost for companies, but the potential EU referendum could make this overseas talent even more difficult to tap into.

With an engineer’s skill set up your sleeve, there is no doubt you will be in high demand from talent hungry employers. What’s more, 90% of UK apprentices remain in employment after completion of their apprenticeship scheme, which means those valuable first few years of professional experience will be much easier to achieve.