Marvin OnumonuUK Space Agency has launched Skills for Space, a paid internship programme offering 50 placements across the UK space sector for young people.
The programme gives hands-on experience and exposure to industry, helping students start their careers in space.
Skills for Space is a UK-wide initiative that comes as the sector faces recruitment difficulties.
The Space Skills Survey found 80% of organisations had trouble hiring, up from 61% in 2020.
More than half reported skills gaps in their workforce, with 61% noting gaps among job applicants.
Nearly every organisation surveyed experienced skills-related issues.
Dr Paul Bate, CEO at UK Space Agency, said: “The UK space sector is growing rapidly, and we need talented, diverse people to help us seize the opportunities ahead.
“Skills for Space will give young people from all backgrounds the chance to gain real-world experience and develop the skills our industry needs.
“These 50 internships are an investment in the future of UK space – helping us build a workforce that is innovative, inclusive and ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”
The Internships will run for eight weeks in July and August 2026.
They are open to undergraduates and further education students, providing experience on projects that support the UK space economy.
Ben Stern, vice chair at UKspace and chair of the Space Skills Advisory Panel, said: “The space sector employs people from a variety of backgrounds in diverse roles across the whole of the country – but it is not always easy for students to realise that there are exciting opportunities open to them to follow a career in the space sector.
“This scheme will help to raise awareness of the fantastic roles available in the UK space sector and break down barriers to entry.
“Experience shows that successful internships can be an opening to longer term employment as companies and the intern already know each other.”
Stern added: “We welcome the UK Space Agency’s support through this new scheme.”
