Where can I find an apprenticeship/job?
You’ll find them on Talentview Aviation – it’s a launchpad for starting your career. Find aerospace and aviation opportunities across the industry.
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!
Read our blog posts about Apprenticeships, University, and Career Paths here.
Careers in Aerospace & Aviation LIVE
The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) annual autumn recruitment fair will take place in our main office in London!
The RAeS careers and recruitment fair is dedicated to supporting current and future aerospace and aviation professionals
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
16+ choices
The document from the Education & Skills Funding Agency brings together the choices for people over 16 years of age. It describes each programme and includes:
- Employer costs
- Incentives
- Training
- Duration
- Eligibility
- Progression route
- Links to additional information
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.
