Institution news
As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we are highlighting the journey of Safaa Essalhi, a third-year Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) apprentice at Transport for London (TfL) and the 2024 IMechE Railway Division Apprentice of the Year.
Making an impact through engineering
Safaa’s passion for engineering is driven by a desire to make a real difference in the city she loves—London. Recognising that TfL engineers are at the heart of one of the world’s busiest transport networks, she was eager to become part of the team responsible for keeping Londoners connected. Alongside her technical ambitions, Safaa is committed to inspiring more women to see engineering as an exciting and rewarding career path.
Safaa’s apprenticeship has provided her with an in-depth education in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), equipping her with expertise in ultrasonic, Eddy current, magnetic particle, and dye penetrant testing techniques. These skills allow her to assess and maintain vehicle and station assets, ensuring the safety and efficiency of London’s transport system.
Beyond technical training, Safaa has honed essential communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. All of which are crucial for thriving in the fast-paced environment of London’s transport network. Reflecting on her journey so far, she shares:
"My journey as an apprentice with multiple placements has not only shaped my career but has also given me a deep appreciation for the incredible work that keeps London moving every day. I encourage all apprentices to embrace it. It's a great opportunity to learn, grow, and be part of something truly impactful."
Inspiring others
Through her apprenticeship, Safaa was selected to speak at TfL’s Graduate, Intern, and Apprentice Corporate Induction, addressing an audience of over 300 attendees. Her leadership, expertise, and dedication to engineering were further recognised when she was awarded IMechE’s Railway Apprentice of the Year 2024.
"Winning the Apprentice of the Year award is a great honour that motivates me to push my limits even further as a female engineer. This recognition fuels my passion for engineering and motivates me to continue uplifting those around me.
To all the women out there considering engineering as a career, I encourage you to take that leap. There are endless opportunities to innovate and make a difference."
The value of apprenticeships
Apprentices like Safaa are shaping the future of engineering, ensuring that industries continue to thrive with skilled, motivated, and innovative talent. As we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we encourage employers to invest in apprenticeships and support the next generation of engineers. The future of engineering depends on the talent, passion, and ambition that apprentices bring to the industry.