The airline made an announcement this morning
easyJet has today made an announcement, aimed at people aged above 17 and three months. The airline is launching applications for its 2026 engineering apprenticeship programme, with roles available at a number of major UK airports.
This comes at a time when the UK Civil Aviation Authority estimates that 27% of the aircraft engineering workforce is set to retire within the next decade, and after new research commissioned by easyJet suggests more needs to be done to encourage young Brits to consider a career in engineering.
Some 65% of the 2,000 16-24 year olds surveyed said they had never considered a career in the field, with many deterred by misconceptions about their suitability for the profession. Over half (59%) believed they lacked the right qualifications, while 34% said engineering was never presented as an option at school and 21% thought it was too expensive to pursue.
The study also highlighted a gender gap, with only 36% of young women considering a career in engineering, compared to 52% of young men. In reality, an apprenticeship offers an accessible alternative route into the profession, providing the skills, experience and confidence needed for a successful career in engineering.
As well as this, the research revealed a growing trend among 16-24 year-olds expressing an interest in pursuing a career with a purpose. Over half (52%) expressed a desire to be in a role that benefits society, with more than two-fifths (44%) stating they aspired to a career that would help tackle climate change.
A further 43% identified engineering as a profession that could help achieve these goals through activities such as developing lower-emission technologies. In an effort to dispel misconceptions and support young 16–24 year olds in their ambition of a purpose-driven career path, easyJet is welcoming its next batch of aspiring engineers, offering an apprenticeship programme that will provide essential skills while earning and learning on the job, without the barriers of traditional routes to access the profession.
Speaking about the call for more apprentices to join its ranks, 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 spots up for grabs across all of easyJet’s major engineering bases nationwide including Luton Airport, London Gatwick Airport, Manchester Airport, Liverpool Airport, Bristol Airport, Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport. Those with a minimum of 2 GCSEs at grade 3 and above or equivalent (SCQF Level 4) Scottish Qualifications in English and Maths are urged to apply here