Are you aged 16-19? Or do you know someone in the 16-19 age group who is interested in aerospace and aviation and thinking about the next steps? Now is the time to think about which A level subjects to study or which vocational course, such as a BTEC will help you achieve your goals. Are you thinking about university or an apprenticeship?  Are you unsure what route to take and still looking to keep your options open? The Careers in Aerospace website has lots of advice and resources for you, whichever step you take.

Career pathways in aerospace

Our roles section provides an in-depth introduction into key career pathways in aerospace and aviation with advice on how to be an engineer, aerospace design and engineering, aircraft maintenance, how to be a pilot and much more.

The two main routes into the industry are either though an Apprenticeship or University degree. Many people begin their careers in designing, developing and testing aerospace products by studying a degree in aeronautical engineering or related fields such as avionics, space, mechanical, systems or materials engineering. There are over 30 highly respected aerospace/aeronautical engineering degrees in the UK, many of which have been accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society. Following university, many graduates will go on to join graduate schemes of large aerospace manufacturers and equipment providers, or OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce, Safran Landing Systems, Cobham or Leonardo, as well as with engineering consultancies such as Atkins and Fraser Nash

Aerospace OEMs, such as Airbus, Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems, have a strong tradition in offering high quality apprenticeships focused on manufacturing and testing intricate, complex components and systems, working with existing and emerging technologies to bring aerospace designs to life. Recent work on new ‘Trailblazer’ standards for apprenticeships across the sector is reinforcing the high standards of training and qualifications aerospace is known for – many of today’s senior executives began their careers as apprentices. This work has led to the development of apprenticeships at all levels, including Degree and Postgraduate routes. Therefore you may even be able to start employment before you get your degree and study while you work, with tuition fees picked up by your employer. Many SMEs also offer apprenticeships and have been involved in developing the new Trailblazer standards. Some large aerospace manufacturers also ‘over train’ apprentices on behalf of SMEs in their supply chain. A good educational grounding in relevant subjects, including Maths, Science and Design & Technology, at GCSE and/or A Level/equivalent standard, depending on which apprenticeship level you enter, is essential. However, competition for places is high – over 2,000 visitors attend the Airbus Open Day each year!

Careers in Aerospace & Aviation LIVE 2021

November 2022

The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) annual recruitment fair will take place this year in November 2022!

The RAeS careers and recruitment fair dedicated to supporting current and future aerospace and aviation professionals

The Royal Aeronautical Society’s Autumn recruitment fair, now entering its 17th year, brings together our strong industry partnerships and thriving network of members.

We hope to bring back our Live event in person this year, which will be confirmed in the new year. Our first ever virtual fair in 2020 was a huge success with over 900 attendees on the day we repeated this success again in 2021, this remains a great option for 2022. We hope you can join us to support existing experienced professionals who are looking for new opportunities as well as the next generation of early career professionals seeking everything from apprenticeships and graduate roles to direct entry and work experience.

Our 2022 event will retain many of the features from 2021 using a dedicated virtual conference platform a long side our main Event at 4 Hamilton Place. The event time will be confirmed soon. 

Registration is FREE to all current and aspiring professionals seeking careers and training opportunities and is open to members and non-members. Please note that registration fees apply to trade visitors wishing to attend for B2B reasons.

Any questions & to express an interest in attending please contact careers@aerosociety.com

Register here

Getting in touch

If you would like more information please contact the Royal Aeronautical Society’s Careers team. In addition to our events and the Careers in Aerospace website, the Royal Aeronautical Society has free materials for individuals, parents, careers advisors, teachers and lecturers including Career Flightpath magazine and the ‘Malaga’ careers poster. We can also provide impartial information, advice and guidance if you know of a young person thinking about training, apprenticeship or university options or choose A Level/BTEC subjects. Visit our School and College pages for more information.