Engineering apprentices from London Gatwick shared their career journeys during a National Apprenticeship Week event held on 10 February at the airport’s STEM Centre. Highlighting how apprenticeships delivered in partnership with Crawley College and the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT) are supporting regional skills development.
The event brought together local employers from sectors including construction, engineering, services and policing, giving visiting schools the opportunity to explore apprenticeship pathways and speak directly with employers and apprentices. Tim Chester-Williams, SSIoT Sales Director, representing Crawley College, delivered presentations to students outlining how apprenticeships provide structured routes into skilled technical careers, including engineering programmes delivered at the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology.
Gatwick Airport is a valued supporter of Crawley College and the SSIoT, working closely with both to support engineering apprenticeships and technical training aligned to industry needs.
During the event, three Gatwick engineering apprentices – Sam, Olivia and Owen – shared their experiences, with SSIoT Marketing Manager Nick Thorp. They talked of developing their skills in a live operational environment while studying alongside work. Two of the apprentices are currently studying engineering at Crawley College, with elements of their learning delivered through the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology’s specialist facilities.
Sam explained how apprentices rotate across a range of engineering departments, gaining three to four months’ experience in each area, including specialist systems, life safety, shuttle and baggage systems, airfield lighting, transport engineering and HVAC.
“The rotations give you a real mix,” he said. “You’re not just in one area – you see how everything connects. Learning on the job, gaining experience. We are supported in our studies and given time and help when needed. Lots of the senior engineering team came through apprentices themselves, so they know how it works. We have been treated fantastically by the team, including by Dave White who is the Gatwick Airport Engineering Apprentice Lead.”
Sam reflected on how his professional assurance has grown since joining the team. “At first I wasn’t sure about making some decisions and requesting expensive engineering components for example,” he said. “But you are trusted and that’s when you realise you’re treated like everyone else. You’re part of the overall team. There is a very high retention rate, people love working here and I do too! To employers I’d say apprenticeships are a great as the apprentices go in keen – bringing energy and are eager to learn and use their new skills.”
Olivia, an engineering apprentice and GDBA 2026 apprentice award nominee, highlighted the strong support structure in place. Gatwick provides a dedicated apprenticeship area equipped with rigs, computers and collaborative workspace, giving apprentices access to the tools and environment they need to succeed.
She gave advice “Time management is crucial to balance work and study and its definitely possible especially as the airport has facilities and helps with study. You’ve got the space, the equipment and people around you who can help,” she said. “It makes a big difference knowing that support is there.”
“Every day is different,” she said. “You’re constantly learning and building experience.” When asked about any particular technical highlights she responded that the X Ray scanning machines, for example, have been a new and really interesting challenge for a technician to work on, as they are vital to the security of the airport and are high-precision , high-tech equipment.
She spoke in a highly positive way about access to the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT) facilities, explaining how specialist equipment and structured learning at Crawley College campus strengthens technical understanding, skills and self-belief. Also mentioning that events such as STEM at the Park and STEM at Crawley College first brought her attention to the path that she is following now. These are open events which are held annually in May, this year on Saturday May 16, where the local community are welcomed into the college to see what is on offer, in addition to other regular Open Events throughout the year – please see the Crawley College website for more information if interested.
A third apprentice, Owen, spoke about the value of practical learning and teamwork.
“When I chose my GCSEs I considered options such as university, but I wanted something hands on, to gain on the job knowledge, I didn’t want to get into debt and I didn’t want a desk-based career. With an apprenticeship, you’re learning the theory, but you’re also applying it straight away.”
He explained that working closely with experienced engineers has helped him develop confidence in communication as well as technical skills. Sam spoke of plenty of support as well as good camaraderie and real friendships amongst existing staff and the apprentices.
“You learn to speak up and work as part of a team,” he said. “That’s built my independence and confidence massively.”
He also encouraged students to follow the pathway that suits them.
“Don’t let anyone tell you that you shouldn’t or can’t do it,” he said. “Follow what you want to do and you’ll have a happy work life.”
Sam described his time studying at Crawley College and the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology as a positive and successful experience, supported at every stage.
All three apprentices spoke positively about balancing an average of one day a week at college with on-site training and workplace support. The combination of structured academic study at Crawley College and the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology, real responsibility at Gatwick Airport and guidance from experienced engineers has strengthened their ability to manage both work and learning effectively.
They also emphasised the benefits of earning a salary while gaining recognised qualifications, avoiding university debt and building long-term careers from the outset — a practical and supported route that many students may not fully consider when exploring post-16 options.
On 6 February, Dave White, Gatwick Airport Engineering Apprentice Lead, visited the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology to deliver a presentation to Crawley College students. More than 50 engineering students attended the session, which was greatly appreciated by all.
“Apprenticeships are about developing the next generation of engineers,” he said. “By giving apprentices exposure across different disciplines and supporting them with structured training, we’re investing in long-term skills and capability.”
The continued partnership between Gatwick Airport, Crawley College and the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology demonstrates how employer collaboration and specialist technical education can provide clear, supported and aspirational pathways into skilled engineering careers across the region.
To discuss apprenticeships or for more information contact:
Tim Chester-Williams. tchesterwilliams@crawley.ac.uk
www.sussexsurreyiot.ac.uk