Amey celebrates first rail engineering apprenticeship graduates entering workforce

Amey 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.