Airbus Defence and Space UK has recruited 17 apprentices in 2021 to train for the new Space Engineering Technician apprenticeship approved by Department of Education and announced at the end of 2020.

 

The new apprentices are all working online following their courses at college and also Airbus continues to support them online with 1:1 interaction. When Covid-19 restrictions change they will be allowed on site to gain hands-on experience in satellite design, manufacturing and integration shadowing existing apprentices at Stevenage and Portsmouth. The new Space Engineering Technician qualification is recognised at Higher Apprenticeship Level 4.

 

Airbus as the UK’s largest space company has been running apprenticeships in space manufacturing for more than 30 years and has trained more than 120 apprentices over the last nine years. 

 

Richard Franklin, Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space UK said: “As the UK’s national lead for space manufacturing and services in the UK we knew it was essential that we continued with our programme of training the next generation of space engineers despite the limits of the pandemic. Our next recruits will learn all aspects of spacecraft design and engineering enabling them to contribute to future UK space missions and growth ambitions, ensuring we maintain our vital pipeline of future talent.”

 

Dr Graham Turnock, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency, said: “The UK’s space sector is booming and aims to create 30,000 jobs over the next decade. The new government-backed Space Engineering Technician apprenticeship is making sure young people have the skills and training they need to pursue a career in this inspiring industry.

“This scheme is a fantastic opportunity for apprentices to become the next generation of engineers to unlock the benefits of space technology here on Earth. I wish Airbus’s 17 new recruits all the best as they embark on this exciting journey.”

 

The new apprenticeships cover design, inspection, satellite integration, problem solving and testing along with the services required to support end to end satellite communications. Full details of the apprenticeship can be found at https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/space-engineering-technician/

 

Airbus’ new apprentices are studying full time at CEMAST (Centre of Excellence in Engineering, Manufacturing and Advanced Skills Training) at Fareham College, Lee on the Solent, and Oaklands College, Welwyn Garden City.

 

Airbus’ space apprenticeship scheme for 2021 will open in October via airbus.com. 

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