What do modern engineering apprenticeships really look like? At Accura Engineering, it’s about more than gaining a qualification. It’s about learning from real challenges, being supported by experienced teams, and developing the confidence to take ownership from day one.
To mark National Apprenticeship Week and celebrate our year-round investment in future talent, we’re sharing real stories from our apprentices working across CNC machining, quality, manufacturing engineering and commercial roles. Each one brings a different perspective, but they all have something in common: a drive to learn, grow, and build something that lasts.
What Engineering Apprenticeships Offer
Apprenticeships are a great route into engineering for those who want to learn on the job, earn while they study, and develop skills that employers value.
At Accura, our apprenticeships include:
- Paid, hands-on experience in precision manufacturing
- Nationally recognised qualifications from Level 3 to degree level
- Structured support from mentors, team leaders and HR
- Real responsibility in areas like CNC machining, inspection and project planning
Whether you’re interested in the shop floor or the commercial side of engineering, our programme is designed to help you grow into a confident, capable professional.
Real Stories from Accura Apprentices
Every apprentice brings their own goals, challenges and background but they all share one thing: a desire to grow.
One of our Level 4 Engineering Manufacturing Technician apprentices started out feeling like they didn’t belong. With time, mentoring and encouragement, they developed the confidence to lead customer projects, manage planning, and quote work independently. Their advice to new starters? “If you feel unsure, that’s normal. Trust the process, take ownership, and you’ll get there.”
Another apprentice on the Level 6 Manufacturing Engineering Degree pathway is blending commercial insight with technical knowledge. Balancing a client-facing role with her studies, she’s strengthened her ability to support customers and grown her confidence along the way.
Our shop floor team includes apprentices working through the Level 2 and 3 Advanced Manufacturing Machinist pathway. Some joined with limited experience, but quickly found their feet in machining and inspection. They’ve gained both technical skills and self-belief and now have a clear view of where they’re headed.
Quality and precision are key to what we do. One apprentice following the Level 4 Quality Practitioner Standard began with just a week of work experience. Now working toward his qualification, he’s thriving in a fast-paced, hands-on environment where no two days are the same.
Others are specialising in toolmaking and die maintenance. One of our apprentices on the Level 2 and 3 Toolmaker and Tool & Die Maintenance Technician route values the space Accura provides to think critically, solve problems, and grow at his own pace.
We also have a Level 3 Engineering Technician (Mechatronics) apprentice who was inspired by a family member in the trade. Now he plays a part in delivering components used in aerospace platforms and takes great pride in the impact of his work.
Why Accura’s Apprenticeship Programme Works
We don’t believe in ticking boxes or filling quotas. Our apprenticeship programme is built around people and helping them unlock their potential through:
- Real responsibility from early on
- Clear progression routes
- Supportive line managers and experienced mentors
- Flexible options including degree and technical apprenticeships
- A culture that values growth, not perfection
Many of our current engineers, team leaders and managers began as apprentices. That’s something we’re proud of.
What Our Apprentices Say to Future Engineers
Thinking about an apprenticeship? Here’s what some of our apprentices want you to know:
Ask questions, it’s how you grow.
No one expects you to have all the answers on day one. Apprentices often say they were surprised by how willing people were to help once they spoke up. Being curious and getting stuck in makes all the difference.
You don’t need to feel confident to start.
Several apprentices admitted they felt out of their depth in the beginning. But they quickly found their stride. With every task and challenge, they proved to themselves they could do more than they thought. Self-doubt fades when you focus on progress.
Trust your instincts and be open to trying new things.
The biggest breakthroughs often come from stepping outside your comfort zone. Whether it’s using a new machine, speaking up in a team meeting, or taking the lead on a small task—growth starts with having a go.
Your team is there to support you.
From line managers to mentors, there’s always someone ready to guide you. The key is to reach out, ask for feedback, and use those conversations to develop your skills.
Say yes to every opportunity to learn.
The most successful apprentices are the ones who see every task as a learning experience. Whether it’s shadowing a colleague or tackling a problem head-on, real growth comes from doing, reflecting, and trying again.
Through hands-on learning, our apprentices are building the skills and confidence they need for long, successful careers in engineering.
Apprenticeships Power the Future of UK Manufacturing
The UK engineering sector faces a growing skills gap. Apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to close it and to prepare for the future.
By investing in our people, Accura is investing in long-term performance, innovation and resilience. From shop floor to commercial, we’re building capability that lasts.
We’re not just training people to do a job. We’re helping them build careers and helping our business grow stronger in the process.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Whether you’re a student, school leaver or career changer, there’s more than one way to build a future in engineering.
