New Space Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Launched

All systems are go for the launch of the new Space Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Standard – powered by Airbus, the University of Leicester and specialist engineering sector connector Enginuity in conjunction with awarding organisation EAL.

Talented young Brits – dubbed the ‘Space Cadets’ – are to play a pivotal part developing a better future for mankind in Space and those remaining on Earth – by serving the National Satellite Test Facility in Harwell, numerous ongoing space propulsion and other projects and supporting future space exploration.

Apprentices will learn how to support the development, manufacturing, assembly, integration and testing of complex, high value space hardware and ground-based equipment.

For example, satellite mechanical structures, and subsystems for in-space power generation and distribution, spacecraft attitude control, thermal control, rocket propulsion, space communication, sensors, planetary landers, and associated support systems.

Ann Watson, CEO, of Enginuity said: “Great British Engineering continues to be a powerful force for good in a world which increasingly needs hope, ingenuity and vision for a better, brighter future.

“Space exploration, engineering and research is a key part of the UK’s Industrial Strategy – which will produce direct and indirect benefits for so many of us.

“Getting this new apprenticeship standard off the launch pad is testimony to the power of the engineering sector, Enginuity, EAL and its partners who have helped bring about this breakthrough moment – but this is just the start.”

Roy Haworth, Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group Chair said: “This has been an amazing sector-wide collaborative effort to get this project off the ground – and a testimony to the incredible experience, energy and expertise that Enginuity and EAL bestow upon it.”

Demand for places on the four-year apprenticeship are likely to be high.