A T LEVEL industry placement has opened the door to a career in engineering for Wiltshire College & University Centre student Lucy Harding, who has gone on to secure an apprenticeship with the very company that supported her studies.

As part of T Levels Week (19–23 October), the College is celebrating the achievements of its students and highlighting the opportunities that come from working with local employers.

For this week’s Thriving Thursday, we’re sharing the story of Lucy, who was recently named Engineering Student of the Year at the College’s annual Student Awards, recognising her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to her studies.

Discovering a future in engineering

Lucy began her engineering journey at Wiltshire College & University Centre on a Level 2 course before progressing to Level 3 and completing an industry placement with AJM Engineering in Corsham.

With engineering already running in the family – her father works as a mechanic and her brother in engineering – Lucy was keen to explore the opportunities available in the industry.

Her placement gave her the chance to put her classroom learning into practice, gaining hands-on experience with machinery, programming and different areas of the business.

She also discovered the variety of industries AJM Engineering works with, from underwater engineering to aerospace, helping her build a clearer picture of where her career could take her.

Although getting to her placement meant travelling by bus and train every Monday, Lucy was determined to make the most of the opportunity.

And it wasn’t long before she felt part of the team.

“I love them so much. They’re so welcoming,” she said.

Recognition for her hard work

Lucy’s dedication to her studies and placement didn’t go unnoticed, and she was nominated for Engineering Student of the Year at the College’s 2026 Student Awards.

Her lecturer praised her maturity, positive attitude and determination, particularly her commitment to attending her placement despite the lengthy journey.

Her employer was equally impressed by her enthusiasm and willingness to learn, giving her opportunities to experience different departments and develop new skills.

That hard work paid off when Lucy was announced as the winner of the award.

“I’m so, so happy,” she said, before thanking the lecturers who had supported her throughout her time at the College.

The award marked a fitting end to her studies and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

From industry placement to apprenticeship

Lucy’s time at AJM Engineering proved to be more than just an opportunity to gain work experience.

Having impressed the team during her placement, she secured a three-year engineering apprenticeship with the company, which she began in September 2026.

Now working towards a Level 4 HNC qualification alongside her apprenticeship, Lucy is continuing to develop her technical skills, take on new responsibilities and build her confidence in the workplace.

Already familiar with her colleagues and the business, she’s been able to make the transition from student to apprentice with a strong foundation of practical experience behind her.

Reflecting on how far she’s come, Lucy said: “It’s amazing what you can do after you get that bit of education.”

From starting out on a Level 2 course to winning Engineering Student of the Year and securing an apprenticeship, Lucy’s journey highlights how industry placements can help young people discover their potential and take their first steps towards a career.

Could your business help create the next success story?

Lucy’s experience is a great example of what can happen when education and industry work together.

As part of their qualification, T Level students complete a minimum of 315 hours in the workplace, developing practical skills, gaining industry knowledge and experiencing what it’s like to work in their chosen sector.

For employers, placements offer an opportunity to support the next generation of skilled professionals while introducing fresh talent into their business.

And, as Lucy’s story demonstrates, a placement could even lead to finding your next apprentice or employee.

With the College’s Big Placement Pledge running until 31 October, there’s still time for businesses across Wiltshire to get involved and help create opportunities for young people.

Could your business offer a T Level industry placement?

Find out how you can get involved and support the next generation of talent.