Nottingham College is set to launch its Highway Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative apprenticeship programme from September 2026.
The programme will provide apprentices with a direct pathway to a vital sector and supports employers with the skilled workforce needed to maintain the UK’s transport infrastructure, says Love Business.
As demand for highways electrical apprenticeships continues to grow, major infrastructure company McCann identified the need for additional training provision to help meet the region’s future workforce requirements. In response, McCann brought together leading employers from across the highways sector to explore potential solutions, and Nottingham College subsequently introduced the new apprenticeship to its curriculum.
The collaboration demonstrates how further education can do more than respond to skills shortages; it can lead the partnerships that address them. By working alongside businesses like McCann, Amey, Crown Highways, Colas, Kier and Lantra, Nottingham College has ensured its delivery of the apprenticeship is informed by current industry practice, helping learners develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours employers require from day one.
For students, this is far more than a qualification. Apprentices will earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience in a real working environment and train alongside leading employers, opening the door to long-term careers maintaining the street lighting, traffic signals and intelligent transport systems that keep Britain’s roads safe and moving.
The apprenticeship is the latest milestone in Nottingham College’s investment in the future of engineering and electrical education. Following the opening of its state-of-the-art Engineering and Electrical Centre in 2025, the college has continued to strengthen partnerships with employers, using industry insight and employer advisory boards to shape technical education that reflects real workforce needs.
The need for initiatives like this has never been greater. EngineeringUK estimates the UK will require around 173,000 additional engineers and technicians each year to meet future workforce demand.
Maxine Blake, Head of Industries at Nottingham College, said:
“Adding this apprenticeship to Nottingham College’s offer represents the very best of employer and education collaboration. As skills needs continue to evolve across the highways sector, it is essential that training provision remains aligned to industry requirements. By working closely with employers, we have developed a delivery model that reflects current industry requirements and addresses both current and future skills needs, while creating meaningful opportunities for individuals entering the profession.”
(Picture: Yay Images)
