Airbus programme helps students discover engineering careers

Broughton, UK, 20 October 2026 – Airbus is launching its Future Engineers Programme in North Wales to spark interest in engineering careers among local pupils, naming Castell Alun High School as the initiative's flagship school. 

The 20-week programme is aimed at reaching schools where there is a risk of becoming Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), and designed for Year 9 students ahead of their GCSE subject choices. It aims to inspire young people who may not have previously considered engineering, equipping them with practical STEM skills and an inside look at modern manufacturing. 

Delivered at Airbus’ Broughton manufacturing site, in partnership with educational charity ABLAZE, the scheme pairs 20 Castell Alun students directly with Airbus apprentices who serve as mentors. Pupils will learn degree-level engineering fundamentals and professional skills before designing, building, and flight-testing their own custom drones. 

Since the Future Engineers Programme first debuted at Airbus Filton in 2016, 190 students have completed the initiative, with many progressing into engineering apprenticeships and careers. Bringing the scheme to Broughton marks an expansion of Airbus' Early Careers outreach in North Wales. 

Harry Swann, Lead of the Airbus Future Engineers Programme said, “For many of the students who come through the programme, this is the first time they’ve experienced engineering and been given the opportunity to explore the workplace. Programmes like this are about giving young people the confidence and skills to see a future they may not have considered before.”

Colin Ellis, Headteacher at Castell Alun High School said, “This initiative provides students with a unique opportunity to develop their engineering knowledge and employability skills through a real-world project, led by industry professionals. It helps bring academic study to life and demonstrates the exciting possibilities available to them in the future. “On behalf of the school, I would like to thank Airbus for the time, expertise and investment they continue to make in supporting young people within their local community. We are extremely proud of this partnership and look forward to seeing it continue to develop in the years ahead.”

Jamie Smitheram, who took part in the programme in 2018 and now works at Airbus as a Landing Gear Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice says his direction was strongly influenced by the experience. “The experience provided a genuine insight into the engineering world and opened doors I hadn't previously considered. Working in teams and pitching to mentors helped grow my confidence, problem-solving, and communication skills. It’s an invaluable opportunity for young people. Today, I’m a Landing Gear Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprentice at Airbus, and I’ve never looked back.” 

Airbus offers early careers opportunities across a range of different routes in engineering, manufacturing, digital, HR and many more.