Engineering Work Experience: Where to Find the Best Opportunities

Test driving vs textbooks… building vs browsing… a blueprint is cool, but lessons and learning don’t always compare to the excitement of getting stuck in.

If you’re curious about creating the next generation of technology that will power the planet, work experience is your chance to test the waters and see if engineering is the right fit for you. We’ve found the most in-demand engineering work experience opportunities across the UK so you can jump into the deep end.

Types of engineering work experience

Ready to get a sneak peek into the world of engineering? Here’s how you could do it via different types of work experience:

• Virtual work experience: These increasingly popular programs let you experience engineering through online simulations, interactive tasks and virtual projects. It’s a great way to explore your future career from the comfort of your sofa.

• Shadowing: Shadowing is a shorter experience, often a day or a few days, where you follow an engineer around and observe what they do.
• Internships: These are longer placements, usually a few weeks or months, where you get to work on real projects alongside engineers.

Top engineering work experience opportunities

BAE Systems

Engineering and technology company BAE Systems offers week-long work experience placements suitable for students aged 14-18. Plus, older students can check out the Engineering Taster Weeks that take place in July annually. During the Taster Week, you can visit one of BAE Systems’ sites and get your hands dirty on real engineering projects. Run, don’t walk, to register your interest!

Siemens

As a giant in the manufacturing world, Siemens is the dream workplace for many aspiring engineers. Take part in the two-week engineering work experience programme to hear from tech and digitisation experts. It’s a virtual setup, meaning you’ll participate via interactive activities, live webinars and immersive video learning. It’s open to anyone aged 13+ (woo!), and you’ll get a certificate of completion at the end.

Renishaw

Manufacturing business Renishaw has two work experience opportunities at their Gloucestershire headquarters: engineering and software. These placements last one week, and both opportunities are project-based rather than shadowing-based. This approach means you’ll learn real employability skills, such as designing a concept model and understanding Renishaw’s product development process. If you’re in Years 10-13, there’s no reason why you can’t hit the ‘apply now’ button.

React Engineering

React is a nuclear decommissioning company – sounds a bit complicated, and that’s because it is. In a nutshell, nuclear decommissioning means safely dealing with nuclear facilities when they’ve reached the end of their useful life. For example, removing radioactive materials, dismantling the facilities and cleaning up the site.

Basically, all this is what React Engineering does. Check out their engineering work experience opportunities for Year 10 students, through which you can contribute to real projects and work with a dedicated mentor.

Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)

The Institution of Chemical Engineers (aka., IChemE) is a regulatory body for people in this industry. The virtual work experience platform is available for students aged 14-18. You can take a look at interactive learning modules and quizzes about all things chemical engineering – don’t forget to download your certificate at the end. There’s also a mini project called the ‘sprint’, which is a real task set for you by an actual engineer!

GKN Aerospace

Global engineering business GKN Aerospace has multiple opportunities for students aged 14-17. As well as engineering-focused roles, you can gain other experience in the aerospace industry in roles like HR, procurement and IT. You’ll get an insider view of how a big company like GKN functions, and what it takes to build cutting-edge aerospace and defense technology.

3 things to talk about in your engineering work experience interview

Engineering work experience placements are mega competitive, and good grades might not be enough to secure your spot. Stand out from the crowd by discussing more than just academics in your interview – these three trending topics can get you started.

Artificial Intelligence

AI, AI, AI… fed up with hearing this ultimate buzzword? Well, you’d better get used to it! AI continually hits the headlines in engineering, so this is a hot topic to talk about.

For example, AI is used to optimise designs (in civil engineering), develop smarter robots (in mechanical engineering) and create more efficient systems (in electrical engineering). Keep track of government policies and funding related to AI research and development. Plus, you can follow tech news websites to stay informed.

Sustainability

Engineering isn’t just about creating cool gadgets or impressive structures anymore; it’s about building smart and sustainably. Think eco-friendly designs and systems that conserve resources. Knowledge of sustainability can really give you a competitive advantage throughout your engineering work experience placement. Look at things like climate change, resource depletion and renewable energy sources.

The Internet of Things (IoT)

You might’ve heard of the Internet of Things before. IoT basically means connecting physical devices like smartphones and home appliances. It’s creating many new engineering opportunities, as even industrial equipment is becoming part of the IoT system. It sounds a bit confusing at first, but a quick YouTube search will help you understand.

Design your success with engineering work experience

Remember, landing that dream placement isn’t just about grades; it’s about showcasing your passion for the future of engineering – a future shaped by AI, driven by sustainability and connected by the Internet of Things. So, research, prepare and get ready to engineer your own success!

Still got questions? Check out our ultimate guide to work experience for everything you need to know.