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There are multiple ways to become an engineer with the most popular route being via an apprenticeship standard which includes a period of on-programme learning, usually following a qualification and assessed by undertaking an End-Point Assessment (EPA). A typical level 3 engineering apprenticeship will have a duration between 36-48 months and will contain knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) to reflect the occupation and job role.
During the EPA an external assessor will conclude if a learner is deemed competent against these KSBs through a range of assessment methods; typically an online test, an observation of professional practice and a professional discussion. On completion of a level 3 apprenticeship learners could progress onto higher apprenticeships/ degree apprenticeships should they wish.
City & Guilds offer 16 different apprenticeship/ EPA products and many other on-programme qualifications for apprentices, adults and full-time learners. To find out more visit -
Engineering | City & Guilds (cityandguilds.com)
Another route into the sector is through completion of the brand-new engineering & manufacturing T Levels which are derived from the apprenticeship standards. Within the T Levels, they contain a comprehensive thermotical core component and demanding occupation specialism which will be completed in a practical setting. The T Levels are a level 3 technical qualification and is completed over 2 years. Learners will also complete 20% industry placement where learners will be working in companies learning occupational skills. Learners will have 13 different occupational specialisms to select ranging from mechanical, electric vehicles to fabrication & welding and many more. On completion of the T Levels, learners would be able to progress into employment or onto an apprenticeship.
Other options include going straight into employment as an operator/ labourer although these roles are generally considered unskilled but no less important than the other workforce. In the majority of cases, these types of workers will remain unskilled but, in some cases, progression could be onto an apprenticeship or some form of commercial upskilling.
Regardless of which pathway an individual takes, all roads lead to engineering. Some pathways will certainly lead to more recognised roles and will often demand a higher salary but as engineering brings in 27% of the UK GDP, the engineering workforce has never been so important as we recover from the pandemic and contend with other global issues.
Engineers possess many transferable and soft skills which are transferable across sector areas such as in project management and finance.
As we move to a net zero world Engineers and businesses in the sector will play a key role in making this reality and the evolution of skills, along with new ones will be a key component to this.
To learn more about the engineering and manufacturing T levels here -
Engineering and Manufacturing - T Levels| City & Guilds (cityandguilds.com)
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Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.