SBT2269 Careermag for Parents Issue 5 v2 FINAL | Page 32

SECTOR SPOTLIGHT - ENGINEERING
Life in the Engineering Industry
To say life as an engineer can be varied is an understatement! they could
be onsite at the building of a power station, fixing someone’s central
heating or be behind a desk using their computer skills designing lifesaving
medical equipment. Alternatively, they might be servicing heavy
manufacturing machinery, developing a water irrigation system or
playing a part in the safety of autonomous vehicles.
Wherever they are and whatever they’re doing, they’ll be attentive, a
sharp thinker and a good team worker. As an engineer they’ll be dealing
with things that make a difference – whether to the whole world or on an
individual level – and they’ll have a lot of responsibility.
Evolving technology means that many engineers carry out their work
from a computer screen, but also be prepared to get their hands dirty on
a site where there’s plenty of noise and, depending on the weather and
location, difficult working conditions.
As with any job, there are parts that can be repetitive and seemingly
unexciting, but as an engineer, they’ll be looking to link a host of
individual elements together to create a whole that will have a major
impact on people’s lives. That’s the beauty of being an engineer and it
can be incredibly rewarding to see their efforts have a positive effect,
whether their work enables people to do something never possible
before or simplifies everyday tasks.
With fast-evolving technology, such as sustainable energy, self-driving
cars and the rise of artificial intelligence, engineers will always be in
demand to drive the development. If your child wants to help shape the
future, then engineering is certainly worth considering.
Apply for engineering opportunities on careermap.co.uk
Training
Another great thing about the
engineering sector is that there
are plenty of ways to break into it.
Degree courses provide the best
prospects for a fast track to senior
roles, but each path is designed
to give they the skills for an
engineering career.
Work-based & Work-related
Qualifications
Relevant NVQ and BTEC
programmes include:
• Electrical and electronic
engineering
• Marine engineering
• Mechanical engineering and
engineering maintenance
• Performing engineering
operations
• Construction and engineering
To work in the industry at a senior
level, relevant programmes in
management and business
technology could also prove useful.
Apprenticeships
There are plenty of engineering
apprenticeship opportunities,
although those with high-profile
businesses – many of which are
household names – are exceedingly
sought after and attract a great deal of
competition. Many small businesses
will have apprenticeships and it’s a
good way to join the industry.
Engineering Apprenticeships are
offered at three levels:
Level Two (Intermediate) –
Equivalent to GCSEs /
Standard Grades
Level Three (Advanced) –
Equivalent to A Levels / Highers
Level Four / Five (Higher) –
Equivalent to Foundation
Degree / Advanced Highers
Level Six / Seven (Degree) –
Equivalent to Bachelors
Degree / Masters
They could work in…
• Construction
• Energy
• Automotive manufacturing
• Marine
• Aerospace
Apprenticeships include:
• Design engineer
• Maintenance technician
• Engineering
• Electrical field service engineer
• Traffic planner
• Fabricator/welder
• Network engineer
Photo courtesy of Royal Academy of Engineering
32 | Issue 5 www.careermap.co.uk