Space technician apprenticeship launched

A new Space Engineering Technician Apprenticeship Standard, driven by Airbus, the University of Leicester and specialist engineering skills body Enginuity, in conjunction with awarding organisation EAL, has been introduced.

Talented young Britains will play a pivotal part developing better space technology by serving the National Satellite Test Facility in Harwell, Oxfordshire where numerous ongoing space propulsion and other projects that support the future space exploration take place.

The 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.”

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

www.enginuity.org