A NEW programme designed to inspire young people to take up careers in engineering launches today.

Engineer-it is a new apprentice ambassador programme which is holding its first event at the Splash Centre in Stockton today.

A hundred Year 9 and 10 students have been invited to take part in interactive engineering challenges alongside volunteer apprentices currently working through their course within North-east companies.

Twenty four apprentices have been trained as ambassadors to help raise awareness of engineering apprenticeships and will be visiting schools around the region to give pupils a taste of what is involved.

Each ambassador will work with school students on different engineering challenges and share their experiences of working as an apprentice.

Funded by Tees Valley Apprenticeship Programme and set up jointly with the National Apprenticeships Service, Engineer-it will be run by business and technology consultancy RTC North.

Barrie Mullen, one of the programme co-ordinators, said: “This is an ideal opportunity for students who are considering an apprenticeship in engineering or similar vocation to meet and work with current apprentices.”

Employers are invited to find out more about how to get involved at employer engagement events on February 8 and March 23 at Wynyard Rooms.

For more information on Engineer-it, contact Barrie Mullen at RTC north on 0191 5164400 or email barrie.mullen@rtcnorth.co.uk.