Young people eyeing a career in engineering have the opportunity to gain varied, on-the-job training from a world-leading manufacturing equipment provider based in Gloucester whilst achieving professional qualifications, with specialist apprenticeships starting in 2026.
Applications are now open for a range of apprenticeships with TBS Engineering, the world's 'premier provider' of automation machinery for the energy storage sector.
Launched over 11 years ago, the highly successful scheme gives young people the practical knowledge and experience they need to succeed in the industry, with opportunities to develop a range of skills and gain qualifications to prepare them for full time employment, as an alternative to studying at university.
What is TBS Engineering?
Founded in Gloucestershire in 1968, TBS Engineering supplies state-of-the-art, automatic battery assembly equipment to manufacturers around the world, employing more than 200 people and boasting annual turnover of £41 million.
Winner of Innovative Business of the Year at the 2025 Gloucestershire Business Awards, its Gloucester plant and head office serves as a hub for its global operations, with facilities in Italy, the USA, Mexico and China.
What are the apprenticeships offered by TBS Engineering?
The company offers the following apprenticeships:
- Technical apprenticeships
- Dual skilled mechanical and electrical apprenticeships
- Design apprenticeships
- Machining apprenticeships
- Engineering apprenticeships with a CAD and design focus
- Commercial apprenticeships
- Engineering apprenticeships followed by Business Studies HNC
What do apprenticeships at TBS Engineering involve?
TBS's three-year apprenticeships begin with an initial year of full-time study at Gloucestershire Engineering Training (GET) in Gloucester.
Then in years two and three, apprentices will be based at TBS's Brockworth facility, working four days a week, with one day a week at GET.
At TBS, apprentices' learning is structured to enable them to experience different areas of the business, equipping them with a 'carousel' of skills to meet the requirements of their qualification and help them identify the focus of their future careers.
What happens after your apprenticeship at TBS Engineering?
Since its inception, more than 90 per cent of trainees have graduated from the scheme, with most continuing to work at TBS today.
Upon completion, graduates will have a nationally recognised qualification in the form of an NVQ or HNC; and subject to the requirements of the business, will be able to apply for suitable vacancies within TBS.
Those who are offered permanent roles with the company may also be given the opportunity for further development and qualifications.
What do apprentices say about TBS Engineering?
Fourth year design HNC HND student, Kobe Pope – who achieved Highly Commended in the Apprentice of the Year category at the 2025 Gloucestershire Business Awards – says his apprenticeship gave him 'a solid foundation in all the core skills – from machining, to fitting, to electrical work, panel work and even design'.
Jacob Szczepanik, a year 2 dual skilled CAD apprentice, commented: 'My training and studies have been a huge help in supporting my work experience, as the practice and mentoring I received before joining TBS full-time gave me a strong foundation and made it easier to settle in. Even so, I continue to learn something new every day on the job.'
Year 3 machinist, Aimee Bromley, said of her experience: 'Working in my department has given me a clear understanding of my role and has improved not only my technical skills but also my professionalism, resilience and communication skills — all of which are vital in my job. My studies and training have also supported me by giving me the knowledge and abilities I use every day in the workplace.'
How to apply for an apprenticeship at TBS Engineering?
Anyone interested in starting an apprenticeship with TBS Engineering next September has until Sunday 22 February 2026 to apply.
For more information, including requirements, salary and a link to the application form, visit tbseng.co.uk/contact/apprenticeships.
