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British firm Amey has marked a major milestone in its commitment to developing future engineering talent with the graduation of the first cohort from its pioneering Rail Engineering Degree Apprenticeship programme. Launched in 2020 in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University, the programme was the first of its kind, offering aspiring rail engineers a chance to gain both a university degree and hands-on experience while working on nationally significant infrastructure projects. Now, five years on, the first group of 30 students have successfully completed the course, graduating with a BEng in Rail Engineering and the credentials required to register as Incorporated Engineers (I.Eng) with the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET). Designed as an alternative route into rail engineering, the degree apprenticeship allows participants to specialise in disciplines such as civil and track (C&T), electrical and mechanical (E&M), and signalling and telecoms (S&T). This “earn while you learn” model bridges the gap between academic study and industry practice, supporting Amey’s mission to address the sector’s skills shortage. Throughout their studies, the apprentices worked on high-profile projects including the Trans-Pennine Route Upgrade and Core Valley Line, gaining experience rarely accessible so early in a career. With 26 students currently enrolled across two further cohorts, the programme’s early success highlights the growing role of degree apprenticeships in building a skilled, diverse engineering workforce. Amey has since expanded its apprenticeship offering to include programmes in Civil Engineering, Data Science, and Environmental Practice, reinforcing its pledge to the 5% Club and promoting greater diversity and inclusion across the industry. “We’re incredibly proud to see the graduation of our first cohort from the Rail Engineering Degree Apprenticeship – a landmark achievement for Amey. These graduates are the future of our industry, equipped with both academic excellence and practical experience. Their journey is a testament to their dedication and to the teams who have supported them,” James Andrews, Head of Engineering at Amey, said. |
