Apprentices from locally headquartered firm, Thales UK, recently joined the town’s MP, Henry Smith, at a reception in the House of Commons organised by ADS Group, the UK aerospace trade association (see attached photograph). The event was in recognition of the crucial role apprentices play in the £24 billion UK aerospace industry. 

The event celebrated the valuable contribution of apprentices operating in this important high-end manufacturing sector, and highlighted the world-leading technologies they are working to develop. 

Henry commented: 

“It was a pleasure to meet with local apprentices from Thales UK, Jack Grimwood and Aron Jacob, who were fantastic Ambassadors for the vibrant and growing aerospace industry that exists here in the UK. Engineering apprenticeships are hugely important for the future of the UK’s advanced manufacturing industries and it was good to be able to meet a number of young engineers working towards highly-skilled and rewarding aerospace apprenticeships. 

“Thales is committed to reducing the effect of air travel on the environment in their design of more efficient air traffic management systems and this is a goal which has my full support. The interests of Gatwick Airport are central to our local community and I’m happy that Thales has decided to increase their presence and apprenticeship opportunities in Crawley.  

“The UK aerospace industry is world leading and is making a significant contribution to a sustainable economic recovery.  Increasing exports will be critical to the overall wellbeing of the UK economy. Achieving success in a competitive export market depends on the skills and capabilities of the young people working within the sector, ongoing investment in new technology and innovation and a long term industrial strategy to give businesses the confidence to continue investing in the UK.”