Unipart supported the Crewe University Technical College’s (UTC) Railway 200 Careers Event which, in partnership with Transport for Wales, celebrated 200 years of the modern railway with the aim of inspiring the next generation of talent to pursue a career in the rail industry.
Crewe UTC is a government-funded educational institution for students aged 14 to 19, which delivers a specialist curriculum encompassing GCSEs, BTECs, and T Levels, specifically designed to prepare students for the modern professional landscape and the future job market.
At the event, Unipart colleagues shared details of their own roles, Unipart’s apprenticeship programme, and the future of the industry, with the help of a showcase of Unipart products.
Unipart currently has 103 apprentices, 34 of which are studying an Engineering Apprenticeship, and 10 of which are based in Crewe.
Unipart Training & Apprenticeships Advisor Dawn Allett said: “The rail industry is currently facing a significant skills gap and undergoing a rapid digital transformation, so events such as these are crucial to attracting talent proficient not just in traditional engineering, but in data science, software integration, and digital maintenance.
“Seeing the enthusiasm of the students at the Crewe UTC Railway 200 event reminds us why our investment in the next generation is so critical. The success seen by a number of our next generation talent, including Harry France and Ella Harper, is a direct reflection of Unipart’s belief that talent development is the engine of innovation. With Network Rail recently relaunching its Switched On website ahead of rail safety education becoming a compulsory part of England’s PSHE national curriculum from September 2026, there is no better time to enhance rail education.
“With our own apprenticeship programmes, world-class ‘on the job’ training, and a supportive culture that empowers young people to upskill and achieve rapidly, we are addressing this skills gap. With our strong partnerships with education providers like Crewe UTC we actively ensure the industry has the skills it needs to drive forward a sustainable future that thrives alongside the modernisation of railways.”
Will Chitty, Principal of Crewe UTC, said: “We are delighted to have welcomed Unipart and other industry partners, and young people from across the region, to a day dedicated to discovery and exploration. A diverse programme of engaging workshops, delivered in collaboration with industry partners, was carefully curated to inspire and inform. By connecting students with industry experts, we aim to broaden their horizons, showcase potential career pathways, and raise aspirations.”