The event, which followed the launch of the joint industry and Government strategy for the future of UK aerospace through the Aerospace Growth Partnership, celebrated the valuable contribution of apprentices operating in this important wealth-producing sector, and highlighted the advanced technological developments they are working to develop. The reception was attended by skills minister Matthew Hancock MP and the Government appointed apprenticeship tsar, Gordon Birtwistle MP, who is also the APPG apprenticeship chair.

 
Paul Everitt, chief executive of aerospace trade organisation ADS Group said: “The UK aerospace industry is the largest in Europe and second only to the US globally. It contributes over £24 billion to the economy each year and employs around 230,000 workers both directly and indirectly. Around 3,000 of these are apprentices. The skills and capabilities they are developing today will help drive growth across the UK aerospace industry in the years ahead.
 
“The future of the aerospace sector rests in the hands of this bright young talent. The Aerospace Growth Partnership, a unique collaboration between industry and Government, is helping to ensure the UK is best placed to maintain the UK’s share of growing and highly competitive global markets.”

Delivering his key note address, skills minister Matthew Hancock MP said: “This is an exciting time for the Aerospace industry. Our decision to invest over £1 billion over the next seven years, matched by business, to create an Aerospace Technology Institute, represents an historic opportunity for the sector.
 
“Apprentices – like those here today - will be a key part of that, helping to ensure the UK sustains its position at the forefront of global aerospace manufacturing.”
 
At the event, apprentices had an opportunity to meet with their counterparts from other companies up and down the country and many were introduced to their local MPs who were in attendance. Ben Ballard, an apprentice at Rolls-Royce, opened the reception.