Inspiring the future workforce
We want to inspire more young people, from all backgrounds, into engineering and technology careers. We’re working with organisations across the education, engineering and tech sectors to showcase the diverse paths available into an engineering or technology career. Find out more about promoting technical and vocational routes available to young people below.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide young people with the opportunity to learn on the job and get paid while studying. Options for students range from Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships, right up to more advanced qualifications, such as degree apprenticeships.
We have undertaken comprehensive research into the career pathways for young people in the UK, including analysis of apprenticeship data. Find out more about apprenticeships and our recommendations to drive progress in our research papers.
Work experience
Work experience provides tangible benefits for both young people and employers. However, not enough young people have access to high quality work experience opportunities and this needs to change.
Hands-on experience in the workforce allows young people to gain confidence, meet role models and explore potential careers. It also supports employers to diversify their workforce, improve recruitment pipelines and offers opportunities to learn from students.
If you’re interested in offering work experience, we’d love to support you. Find guidance on the Tomorrow’s Engineers website for top tips, things to consider and research on the benefits of taking part.
At EngineeringUK, we offer a work experience programme for local schools. We’ve found it incredibly rewarding and received positive feedback from participants. We’ve been able to showcase our work, learn from them and meet new and interesting people.
T Levels
Creating a diverse workforce is crucial in a highly technical sector like engineering and technology, especially when long-standing skills gaps and people shortages are holding many businesses back. T Levels are designed to help solve that problem.
The new technical qualification for 16 to19 year olds in England combines classroom learning with a 45-day industry placement, providing students with the right blend of technical skills and hands-on experience needed to contribute positively in the workplace.
Our 2022 report, Anyone for T? suggested that more needs to be done both for students, parents and employers to raise awareness of T Levels. This is against the backdrop of an estimated shortfall of 43,500 industry placements, a key component for students looking to take up T Levels.
About T Levels
T Levels are available for students post-16 and offer a technical route into engineering and technology careers. The qualification is designed in partnership with employers to help solve industry skills gaps and build a skilled future workforce.
Policy recommendations
We collaborate with the government and other bodies to improve pathways into STEM careers. Our research and insight help us advocate for stronger policies to equip the UK with essential engineering skills.
