Following on from blogs yesterday for National Apprenticeship Week, our next apprentice is Tom from Reaction Engines.

Reaction Engines is a UK-based company who design and develop technologies needed for a new class of innovative hypersonic propulsion system – the Synergetic Air Breathing Rocket Engine (SABRE).

With an annual turnover of £14.2 billion, the UK’s Space sector is at the cutting edge of exploring the universe and connecting people to the world around them.

Why did you choose to join Reaction Engines through the Apprenticeship Scheme?

I chose to apply to Reaction Engines as I had a keen interest in aerospace engineering and engines. The scheme appealed to me because it is a four-year apprenticeship at a highly advanced company.

What has been the best thing about your apprenticeship?

The best thing about the apprenticeship scheme and the company is working with new technology and cutting-edge ideas. The first year of college was good because of the volume of learning both practical and theoretical work. It’s nice now to be in the workplace getting to know the company and the people in it better.

What have you enjoyed learning the most throughout your apprenticeship?

I enjoy developing my skills in metal fabrication and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Machining.

Growing up, did you always know you wanted to work in engineering?

I have always had a big interest in becoming an engineer from a young age as I have spent most of my spare time working with and rebuilding cars and motorbikes. I restored a 1989 Mini Mayfair when I was 16 and would spend most weekends working on it for a year and a half throughout restoration. This is where I picked up my basic skills, which have helped in the apprenticeship.

Read about other apprentices in our sectors – updated throughout National Apprenticeship Week.