easyJet made a major announcement on Monday
Edinburgh Airport(Image: Nirian via Getty Images)
easyJet has today issued an announcement regarding Edinburgh and Glasgow airports, among other across the UK. The airline said it is launching a number of new apprenticeship roles, aimed at those aged over 17 years and three months.
This move comes as the UK Civil Aviation Authority predicts that 27% of the aircraft engineering workforce will retire within the next decade. Furthermore, new research commissioned by easyJet indicates that more needs to be done to inspire young Brits to consider a career in engineering.
A staggering 65% of the 2,000 16-24 year olds surveyed admitted they had never contemplated a career in this field. Many were put off by misconceptions about their suitability for the profession.
Over half (59%) believed they lacked the necessary qualifications, while 34% said engineering was never presented as an option at school and 21% thought it was too costly to pursue.
The study also revealed a gender gap, with only 36% of young women considering a career in engineering, compared to 52% of young men. In reality, an apprenticeship provides a viable alternative route into the profession, equipping apprentices with the skills, experience and confidence needed for a successful career in engineering.
Additionally, the study uncovered a rising trend amongst 16-24 year-olds showing keen interest in pursuing meaningful careers. More than half (52%) voiced their wish to secure roles that would benefit society, while over two-fifths (44%) revealed they yearned for careers helping to combat climate change.
A further 43% recognised engineering as a field that could assist in reaching these objectives through initiatives like creating lower-emission technologies. In a bid to challenge misconceptions and assist young people aged 16-24 in their quest for purpose-driven career paths, easyJet is recruiting its latest cohort of budding engineers, providing an apprenticeship scheme that delivers vital skills whilst earning and training simultaneously, removing the obstacles of conventional entry routes into the industry.
Discussing the appeal for additional apprentices to join the team, Brendan McConnellogue, Director of Engineering and Maintenance at easyJet said: “Today’s young people are motivated by purpose – they want to solve problems, travel, innovate and play their part in building a more sustainable future.
“Our engineering apprenticeships give candidates the chance to gain valuable experience working on our state-of-the-art fleet of aircraft while helping to deliver on aviation’s commitment to decarbonisation.
“This programme not only provides a pathway to grow professionally but also allows apprentices to make a meaningful contribution to the success of our operations throughout our network. We’re looking forward to opening the doors to applicants from all backgrounds who are ready to take their first step into a rewarding career in aviation.”
Aviation Minister, Keir Mather, said: “This engineering apprenticeship scheme marks an important step in continuing to build a highly skilled aviation workforce fit for the future.
“Initiatives like easyJet’s unlock exciting, flexible routes into aviation, backing an expanding sector whilst offering young people valuable opportunities and long-term careers – helping deliver our Plan for Change.”
Applications for the 2026 intake are now open, with places available across key easyJet hubs nationwide including Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport, Luton Airport, London Gatwick Airport, Manchester Airport, Liverpool Airport, and Bristol Airport.
Candidates holding at least 2 GCSEs at grade 3 and above or equivalent (SCQF Level 4) Scottish Qualifications in English and Maths are urged to apply here