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Gatwick opens engineering apprenticeship roles for 2026 start

Applications have opened for London Gatwick Airport’s apprenticeship programme, offering aspiring engineers the opportunity to launch their careers in a live airport environment.

For the August 2026 intake, the airport is recruiting three ‘Electro/Mechanical’ apprentices and one ‘Heavy Vehicle’ apprentice. Successful candidates will work at the heart of the world’s busiest single-runway airport, gaining hands-on experience with specialist systems, tackling real-world engineering challenges and learning alongside experienced operational teams.

The Electro/Mechanical apprenticeship is a four-year programme beginning at Level 3. In years three and four, apprentices progress to a Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in engineering, graduating with both Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications and Engineering Technician (EngTech) professional registration.

The Heavy Vehicle apprenticeship is a three-year programme, also starting at Level 3, and leads to professional membership on completion.

Dave White, apprentice development lead at London Gatwick, said: “Opening applications for our apprenticeship programme is always a special moment. London Gatwick is an extraordinary place to learn – no two days are the same and our apprentices work with an impressive range of systems and technology, gaining invaluable experience.

“These programmes give people the skills, confidence and professional qualifications to build long-term engineering careers. We’re passionate about developing future talent and helping people take their first steps into a truly rewarding profession. We can’t wait to welcome the next cohort later this year.”

Owen Pugh, third year apprentice at London Gatwick, said: “Applying for this apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I have made. At London Gatwick, you gain hands-on experience on a wide range of engineering practices. You get the opportunity to work with many engineering teams such as the airfield lighting team to the specialist systems team. We get the opportunity to study as well as gain experience and knowledge from expert engineers.

“If you enjoy working practically, problem-solving and working with an amazing team I would highly recommend applying!”

Applications are now open up to March 2 via London Gatwick’s apprenticeship webpage here.

Alongside recruitment, London Gatwick continues to invest in early careers outreach across the region. During National Apprenticeship Week (February 9-15, 2026), colleagues from across the airport will take part in activities including school presentations and an apprenticeship careers broadcast aimed at inspiring young people to consider technical career pathways.

The airport will also host its third on-site apprenticeship fair. Building on last year’s event, the fair has attracted more than 300 bookings and will welcome over 15 employers from across the airport ecosystem, including airlines, construction, airport operations, hospitality, retail and transport organisations.

In addition to employer stands, the event will feature a programme of talks and interactive sessions, including presentations from current London Gatwick apprentices and recent graduates, offering first-hand insight into working at a major international airport and early careers in aviation.

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