Marvin OnumonuAmey has marked a significant milestone with the graduation of the first batch of students from its rail engineering degree apprenticeship scheme.
In partnership with Sheffield Hallam University, the scheme was the first of its kind and combined academic learning with practical experience on key national projects.
Over five years, 30 students completed the course, earning both a degree in rail engineering and the necessary skills to qualify as Incorporated Engineers with the Institute of Engineering and Technology.
The programme offered specialisations in civil and track, electrical and mechanical, and signalling and telecoms engineering, aiming to provide an alternative career path in the sector.
The company noted that these apprentices had opportunities to work on major UK infrastructure initiatives like the Trans-Pennine Route and Core Valley Line upgrades, experiences rarely available at this stage in their careers.
Currently, 26 learners are enrolled across two cohorts in the programme.
Amey has since expanded its apprenticeship offerings with similar degree programmes in fields like data science and environmental practice, to broaden apprenticeship opportunities within the company.
James Andrews, head of engineering at Amey, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see the graduation of our first cohort of students from our Rail Engineering Degree Apprenticeship scheme, which of course is a landmark achievement for Amey.
“These graduates represent the future of rail engineering, bringing not only academic excellence but also invaluable practical experience to the rail industry.
“This apprenticeship programme equips young professionals with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving industry and is testament to the dedication and hard work of both the students and the teams supporting them along the way.”
Alfie Box, a degree apprentice at Amey, said: “Completing the Rail Engineering Degree Apprenticeship has been an incredible journey for me personally.
“The programme provided me with the perfect balance of theory and hands-on experience, allowing me to build my knowledge while also contributing to major infrastructure projects such as the Core Valley Line transformation project.
“I’m proud to be part of the first cohort to graduate from this scheme, and I’m excited to take what I’ve learned into my career, driving innovation and progress within the railway industry.”
Joe Hockney, employer partnerships manager at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “At Sheffield Hallam we are extremely proud of our first cohort of BEng Rail apprentices.
“We look forward to seeing them at graduation alongside their families. Starting their apprenticeship journey in March 2020, they faced immediate challenges posed by national lockdowns, which limited their access to facilities and learning opportunities both at work and university.
“A high proportion have achieved either a First or a 2:1 in their degree.”
Hockney added: “All apprentices have shown dedication to their profession and have produced high-impact project work.
“We also value the support provided by the Amey mentors, the course team and the Apprenticeship Coach.”
