A Guide to Engineering Apprenticeships, Degrees & Career Paths

Engineering and manufacturing are dynamic, high-growth industries offering a wealth of career opportunities. For school leavers, graduates, or anyone considering a career change, understanding the routes into engineering is essential. Choosing the right path ensures you gain the skills, qualifications, and experience employers value, setting you up for long-term success.

At BMR Solutions, we work closely with candidates entering these industries, helping them navigate apprenticeships, degrees, and alternative routes. This guide will break down your options and provide practical advice on how to start and grow a successful engineering career.

Why Engineering is a Great Career Choice

The engineering and manufacturing sector is one of the UK’s most vital industries. It drives innovation, supports infrastructure, and produces the products we rely on every day — from automotive components to cutting-edge robotics.

Benefits of a career in engineering include:

  • High demand: Many companies face skills shortages and are actively recruiting.

  • Variety of roles: Opportunities span mechanical, electrical, design, automation, maintenance, and more.

  • Career progression: Clear pathways exist from apprentice to senior engineer and management.

  • Competitive salaries: Skilled engineers earn well above the national average.

  • International opportunities: Engineering skills are in demand globally.

Routes Into Engineering

1. Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are an excellent way to gain hands-on experience while earning a wage. They combine practical training with classroom-based learning and are ideal for school leavers or career changers.

Types of apprenticeships include:

  • Mechanical Engineering Apprenticeships: Focus on maintenance, repair, assembly, and operation of machinery.

  • Electrical Engineering Apprenticeships: Cover circuit design, wiring, PLC programming, and control systems.

  • CNC Machining Apprenticeships: Train candidates in programming and operating multi-axis CNC machines.

  • Maintenance & Operations Engineering Technician (MOET): Provides a foundation in engineering operations, fault-finding, and preventative maintenance.

Benefits:

  • Earn while you learn

  • Build practical skills that employers need

  • Often lead to permanent employment with the host company

Useful resources for apprenticeships:

  • GOV UK

  • Prospects UK

  • GetMyFirstJob

2. College & Vocational Qualifications

For those who prefer classroom learning, technical colleges offer diplomas and certificates in engineering. Courses are often structured to include work placements, bridging education and employment.

Common qualifications:

  • BTEC National Diploma in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

  • T Levels in Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing, and Control

  • City & Guilds Diplomas in various technical disciplines

Benefits:

  • Strong foundation in core engineering principles

  • Practical experience via placements

  • Easier progression to higher-level qualifications or degree-level study

3. University Degrees

University degrees are ideal for those aiming for specialist roles, R&D, or leadership positions. Popular engineering degrees include:

  • Mechanical Engineering

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

  • Manufacturing and Production Engineering

  • Mechatronics & Robotics

What you learn:

  • Design principles and problem-solving techniques

  • Advanced technical skills, including CAD, PLC programming, and automation

  • Project management and teamwork

Career outcomes:

  • Design engineer

  • R&D engineer

  • Automation engineer

  • Project manager or technical consultant

4. Entry-Level Jobs & Training Programs

Some companies offer trainee roles or graduate programs for candidates without formal engineering qualifications. These roles provide on-the-job training, enabling you to:

  • Gain practical experience

  • Learn from experienced engineers

  • Progress into specialist or senior roles

Tip: Look for companies that run academy-style initiatives — these often include structured training, mentorship, and clear progression pathways.

Key Skills for Success in Engineering

Employers look for a combination of technical and soft skills. Developing these early will help you stand out.

Technical Skills:

  • Knowledge of engineering principles (mechanical, electrical, automation)

  • CAD & CAM software proficiency

  • Problem-solving and analytical thinking

  • Understanding of machinery, tools, and production processes

Soft Skills:

  • Communication & teamwork

  • Adaptability & willingness to learn

  • Attention to detail

  • Time management & organisation

How to develop these skills:

  • Take on projects, internships, or volunteering opportunities

  • Attend workshops, webinars, and industry events

  • Engage with online communities and forums

Engineering Career Progression

A clear career path helps you set goals and monitor your growth:

Stage: Year 0-2

  • Typical Roles: Apprentice/ Trainee

  • Key Responsibilities: Assist Senior Engineers, learn basics

  • Skills to Develop: Hands-on skills, safety, basic fault-finding

Stage: Year 2-5

  • Typical Roles: Junior Engineer

  • Key Responsibilities: Independent work on projects, minor design modifications

  • Skills to Develop: Technical confidence, project involvement

Stage: Year 5-10

  • Typical Roles: Mid-Level Engineer

  • Key Responsibilities: Lead projects, mentor juniors, and improve systems

  • Skills to Develop: Leadership, design expertise, process optimisation

Stage: 10+ Years

  • Typical Roles: Senior Engineer/ Manager

  • Key Responsibilities: Strategic oversight, manage teams, high-level designs

  • Skills to Develop: Management, innovation, technical mastery

Next Steps for Aspiring Engineers

  1. Research your interests: Explore which branch of engineering excites you most.

  2. Gain experience: Apply for apprenticeships, internships, or part-time jobs.

  3. Develop your skills: Invest in courses, training, and CPD.

  4. Network: Attend industry events, join LinkedIn groups, and connect with professionals.

  5. Apply for roles: Target positions that align with your skills, qualifications, and career goals.

How BMR Solutions Can Support You

At BMR Solutions, we specialise in connecting aspiring engineers with leading employers across the UK. Whether you’re:

  • Considering an apprenticeship

  • Looking for graduate opportunities

  • Exploring a career change

We can provide:

  • Advice on routes into engineering

  • Guidance on CVs and interview preparation

  • Access to exclusive vacancies

Starting your engineering career is a big step, but with the right guidance, training, and hands-on experience, you can position yourself for long-term success.