Affinity’s Head of HR & Training, Louise Lambert, recently attended the APPG Apprenticeships Fair in Westminster, contributing to national discussions on the future of apprenticeships and workforce development across the UK.
As an organisation that invests in developing talent from within, Affinity was proud to represent the aviation engineering sector at an event focused on strengthening apprenticeship pathways and addressing long-term skills needs.
Engaging with National Leaders on Skills Policy
During the event, Louise had the opportunity to speak with:
- Toby Perkins MP, Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Apprenticeships
- The Rt Hon Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills
Their discussions focused on the critical role apprenticeships play in developing the next generation of licensed aircraft engineers and ensuring the UK maintains a strong, future-ready aviation workforce.
Constructive dialogue between industry and government is essential to ensure apprenticeship frameworks remain aligned with both regulatory standards and the evolving needs of the aviation sector.
Expanding Access to Aircraft Engineering Careers
At Affinity, developing people is central to everything we do.
A key theme raised at Westminster was the opportunity to broaden the scope of the Apprenticeship Levy to include pathways aligned with Part 66 modules. Expanding the flexibility of levy funding would enable more aspiring engineers to access structured routes toward recognised aircraft maintenance qualifications.
Greater alignment between funding policy and specialist aviation certification could:
- Increase access to aircraft engineering careers
- Support progression toward licensed engineer status
- Help address long-term aviation skills shortages
- Strengthen the UK’s aviation capability
Opening these pathways is critical to sustaining growth and maintaining the UK’s global reputation for aviation excellence.
Supporting Sustainable Workforce Development
The aviation industry continues to face growing demand for skilled aircraft engineers. Employers who invest in structured apprenticeship programmes play a direct role in strengthening the resilience and capability of the wider sector.
Broadening flexibility within the Apprenticeship Levy, particularly to support specialist aviation training pathways, would further enable organisations like Affinity to expand internal development routes and accelerate skills progression.
A Long-Term Commitment to Talent Development
Our approach to internal apprenticeships reflects our belief that sustainable growth depends on investing in individuals, building capability from within, and creating clear progression pathways for aspiring aviation proffesionals.
