Engineering Courses, Careers and Apprenticeships

Looking for an engineering career? Whether you’re leaving school, changing career or looking to upskill, Pembrokeshire College offers engineering courses, apprenticeships and professional training to help you get started.

Why choose a career in engineering?

Engineering is one of the UK’s most in demand sectors, offering a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as manufacturing, renewable energy, marine technology, construction, automotive and maintenance. Engineers help design, build and maintain the systems, structures and technologies we rely on every day.

Whether you’re interested in solving problems, working with cutting edge technology or helping shape a more sustainable future, engineering offers excellent opportunities for progression and long term career development.

Did you know? Around one in four job adverts in the UK are for engineering and technology roles, highlighting the continued demand for skilled engineers and technicians across a wide range of industries. Engineering UK

Why study engineering at Pembrokeshire College?

A £4.2 million investment in our engineering facilities has created outstanding learning environments, including marine, mechanical and automotive workshops, alongside a state of the art energy centre specialising in renewable technologies.

We work closely with local and national employers to ensure our courses reflect industry needs. With experienced lecturers, specialist technicians and modern equipment, learners gain the practical skills and knowledge needed to progress into employment, apprenticeships or further study.

Common questions about engineering careers

What does an engineer do?

Engineers solve problems and help design, build, maintain and improve the world around us. They work across a wide range of industries, from manufacturing and construction to energy, transport and technology.

Depending on their specialism, engineers may design new products, maintain machinery, improve production processes, install electrical systems or develop innovative solutions to technical challenges. Many engineering careers combine practical skills with problem solving, teamwork and the use of modern technology.

Engineering is a diverse and rewarding sector with opportunities for people who enjoy working with their hands, analysing information, finding solutions and making a real impact on everyday life.

Is engineering a good career?

Engineering is often considered one of the most varied and rewarding career paths available. Engineers are needed across many industries, which means there are opportunities in areas such as manufacturing, renewable energy, construction, marine engineering and advanced technology.

The sector offers a range of career routes, from apprenticeships and technical roles through to management and specialist engineering positions. Many engineering careers also provide opportunities for progression, further qualifications and professional development.

If you enjoy problem solving, technology, practical work and continuous learning, engineering can offer a challenging and fulfilling career with opportunities both locally and across the UK.

How do I become an engineer?

What qualifications do I need to become an engineer?

There are several routes into engineering, depending on your goals and experience.

Many people begin with a full-time engineering course, apprenticeship or vocational qualification. Others may progress through higher education or professional training while working in the industry.

Different engineering careers have different requirements. For example, a maintenance engineer, fabrication and welding engineer, electrical engineer or mechanical engineer may follow slightly different pathways.

At Pembrokeshire College, learners can explore a range of engineering courses designed to develop practical skills, industry knowledge and progression opportunities into employment, apprenticeships or further study.

Can I study engineering part-time?

Yes. Part-time engineering courses can be a flexible option for adults looking to retrain, upskill or gain new qualifications while balancing work or other commitments.

Part-time study allows you to develop new skills and industry knowledge without committing to full-time education. Depending on the course, you may attend on specific days or evenings while continuing to work.

Engineering qualifications can support career progression, help you move into a new role or provide the skills needed to progress onto higher level study or specialist training.

Engineering apprenticeships

An engineering apprenticeship combines paid employment with structured training, allowing you to gain industry experience while working towards recognised qualifications.

As an apprentice, you’ll spend most of your time in the workplace, applying your skills in a real engineering environment while receiving support from both your employer and training provider.

Engineering apprenticeships are available across a range of disciplines and can be an excellent route for those who want to earn while they learn. They provide valuable hands-on experience, help develop industry-specific skills and can lead to long-term career opportunities.

Engineering jobs and careers in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire has a strong engineering sector, with opportunities linked to manufacturing, construction, energy, utilities, marine industries and industrial maintenance.

Local employers value skilled engineers, technicians and apprentices who can contribute to maintaining equipment, supporting production processes and driving innovation. Engineering skills are also highly transferable, opening opportunities across Wales and the wider UK.

Whether you’re leaving school, changing career or looking to develop new skills, engineering offers a range of pathways into a sector that continues to evolve and create opportunities for qualified professionals.