Drone Apprenticeships in the UK: Current Opportunities and Future Plans

The Growing Demand for Drone Professionals

Drones have become an integral part of various industries, from capturing stunning aerial footage in the media industry to surveying land in construction and agriculture. The applications of UAV technology are diverse and expanding, which has led to a surge in demand for professionals skilled in operating drones, analysing the data they collect, and maintaining the complex systems that keep them flying.

According to the PwC report "Skies Without Limits 2.0," the drone industry could contribute £42 billion to the UK economy by 2030, with over 628,000 people working in drone-related jobs. This growth underscores the need for a skilled workforce to meet this evolving industry's demands.

Apprenticeships offer a pathway into this dynamic field, combining hands-on training with academic study. For young people and career changers alike, apprenticeships provide an opportunity to earn while you learn, gaining valuable experience and qualifications recognised across the industry.

Types of Drone Apprenticeships Available in the UK

The UK offers a variety of apprenticeships that can lead to a career in the drone industry. These apprenticeships range from engineering and aviation to IT and specialised drone operations. Below, we explore some of the key types of apprenticeships available.

1. Engineering Apprenticeships

Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering apprenticeships are one of the most relevant pathways for those interested in working with drones. These apprenticeships involve working with aircraft and aerospace technology, which naturally extends to UAVs. As an aerospace engineering apprentice, you would learn about the design, development, and maintenance of various aerospace vehicles, including drones.

These apprenticeships cover a broad range of topics, including aerodynamics, materials science, propulsion, and avionics. You would gain experience working on the systems that allow drones to fly, navigate, and perform specific tasks. Aerospace engineering apprenticeships are typically offered at higher or degree levels, meaning you can work towards a qualification equivalent to a university degree while gaining hands-on experience in the industry.

Electronic Engineering

Electronic engineering is another critical area for those interested in drones. Many drones rely heavily on sophisticated electronic systems, including sensors, communication devices, and control systems. An apprenticeship in electronic engineering could involve working on these systems, and learning how to design, build, and maintain the electronic components that make drones operational.

This apprenticeship would typically cover areas such as circuit design, embedded systems, digital and analogue electronics, and signal processing. With the increasing complexity of drone technology, electronic engineers are in high demand to ensure that these systems are reliable, efficient, and capable of performing in various environments.

2. Aviation Apprenticeships

Aviation Operations

Aviation operations apprenticeships provide a broad understanding of the aviation industry, including the operation of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). These apprenticeships are ideal for those interested in the logistics and operational aspects of drone technology within the broader context of aviation.

As an aviation operations apprentice, you would learn about air traffic management, flight operations, and safety procedures. You might also gain experience in the regulatory aspects of drone operations, which is increasingly important as UAVs become more common in commercial and public sector applications. This type of apprenticeship could lead to roles in air traffic control, flight planning, or even managing a fleet of drones for a specific purpose.

Pilot Apprenticeships

While traditional pilot apprenticeships focus on manned aircraft, there are emerging opportunities to specialise in drone piloting. Some training providers offer courses specifically designed to train drone pilots. These programmes typically involve learning how to operate drones safely and efficiently, as well as understanding the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern UAV operations in the UK.

Drone pilot apprenticeships may also cover advanced topics such as beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations, automated flight systems, and the use of drones for specific applications like surveying, photography, or inspection. These apprenticeships can be an excellent way to gain the skills needed to become a professional drone pilot, a role that is increasingly in demand across various industries.

3. IT and Digital Apprenticeships

Software Development

Drones are not just hardware; they are also highly dependent on sophisticated software for navigation, data processing, and communication. An apprenticeship in software development could provide the skills needed to create or maintain the software systems that power drones.

As a software development apprentice, you might work on developing flight control algorithms, building user interfaces for drone operation, or creating software for processing and analysing the data collected by drones. This apprenticeship would typically cover programming languages, software engineering principles, and the development of applications that are specific to drone technology.

Cybersecurity

As drones become more integrated into critical infrastructure and sensitive applications, the need to protect them from cyber threats is growing. A cybersecurity apprenticeship could involve learning how to secure unmanned systems from hacking, data breaches, and other security vulnerabilities.

This apprenticeship would cover topics such as network security, encryption, risk assessment, and incident response. With the increasing reliance on drones in sectors like defence, energy, and emergency services, cybersecurity professionals with expertise in UAVs are becoming increasingly valuable.

4. Specialised Drone Apprenticeships

In addition to the broader fields mentioned above, there are also specialised apprenticeships focused specifically on drones. These programmes are designed to provide direct entry into the field of drone technology and are often offered by companies or training providers that specialise in UAVs.

UAS Apprenticeships

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) apprenticeships are specifically tailored to those looking to work with drones. These apprenticeships might cover areas such as drone operation, maintenance, and data analysis. They may also include training in specific applications of drones, such as aerial surveying, inspection, or delivery services.

These apprenticeships are typically offered at various levels, from intermediate to advanced, and can lead to roles such as drone operator, UAS technician, or even UAS manager. Specialised UAS apprenticeships are an excellent way to gain targeted skills and experience in the rapidly growing field of drone technology.

Future Plans for Drone Apprenticeships in the UK

The UK government and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) recognise the importance of developing a skilled workforce to support the growth of the drone industry. As a result, there are ongoing efforts to expand and refine the range of apprenticeships available in this field.

1. Expansion of UAS Apprenticeships

As the drone industry continues to grow, there is a strong focus on expanding UAS-specific apprenticeships. The government and industry stakeholders are working together to develop new apprenticeship standards that address the unique needs of the drone sector. These standards are being designed to ensure that apprentices gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in various aspects of UAV technology, from operation and maintenance to software development and data analysis.

One of the key areas of focus is on creating more advanced apprenticeship pathways that can lead to higher-level qualifications, such as degree apprenticeships. These programmes would provide apprentices with a deeper understanding of drone technology and its applications, preparing them for leadership roles within the industry.

2. Integration of Emerging Technologies

The future of drone apprenticeships will also involve the integration of emerging technologies. As drones become more sophisticated, there will be a need for professionals who understand how to work with technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and automation. The IfATE is exploring ways to incorporate these technologies into existing apprenticeship frameworks, ensuring that the UK workforce remains at the cutting edge of UAV innovation.

For example, apprenticeships in software development may begin to include modules on AI and machine learning, with a focus on how these technologies can be applied to drone operations. Similarly, engineering apprenticeships might start to cover the integration of drones with other autonomous systems, such as self-driving vehicles or smart infrastructure.

3. Collaboration with Industry

The UK government and IfATE are also working closely with industry partners to ensure that drone apprenticeships are aligned with the needs of employers. This collaboration is essential for ensuring that apprenticeships provide the skills and knowledge that are most in demand within the drone industry.

Industry collaboration may involve developing new apprenticeship standards, providing input on curriculum design, or offering apprenticeship placements to students. By working together, the government, IfATE, and industry can create apprenticeship programmes that not only meet current needs but also anticipate future trends in the drone sector.

4. Increased Funding and Support

To support the growth of drone apprenticeships, the UK government is likely to increase funding and support for these programmes. This could involve providing additional resources for training providers, offering financial incentives for employers to take on apprentices, or launching awareness campaigns to attract more students to the field.

In particular, there may be increased support for degree apprenticeships, which offer a higher level of education and training. These programmes are often more expensive to run, so additional funding could make them more accessible to a wider range of students.

5. Focus on Diversity and Inclusion

Another important aspect of the future of drone apprenticeships is a focus on diversity and inclusion. The UK government and IfATE are committed to ensuring that apprenticeships are accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstances. This includes efforts to increase the participation of women, ethnic minorities, and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds in drone-related apprenticeships.

To achieve this, there may be targeted initiatives to promote drone apprenticeships to underrepresented groups, as well as support services to help these individuals succeed in their training. By fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce, the UK can ensure that the drone industry benefits from a wide range of perspectives and talents.

Conclusion

Drone apprenticeships in the UK offer a valuable pathway into a rapidly growing and exciting industry. Whether you're interested in engineering, aviation, IT, or specialised drone operations, there are apprenticeships available that can provide the skills and experience you need to succeed.

As the drone industry continues to expand, the UK government and the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education are committed to supporting the development of a skilled workforce. With plans to expand UAS apprenticeships, integrate emerging technologies, and increase funding and support, the future of drone apprenticeships in the UK looks bright.

If you're considering a career in the drone industry, now is the perfect time to explore the apprenticeship opportunities available. By gaining practical experience and recognised qualifications, you can position yourself at the forefront of this innovative and rapidly evolving field. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to make a change, a drone apprenticeship could be your gateway to a rewarding and dynamic profession.