Econ is proud to support National Apprenticeship Week 2026, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to developing the next generation of skilled engineers through high-quality apprenticeship opportunities.
As the UK’s leading manufacturer of winter and highways maintenance vehicles, Econ builds nine out of ten gritters currently operating on British roads. From its headquarters in Ripon, North Yorkshire, the family-owned business continues to invest in people, skills and innovation to secure the future of British engineering.
Apprenticeship Opportunities Available
To mark National Apprenticeship Week 2026, Econ currently has five apprenticeship vacancies open for applications across three Level 3 programmes:
– Level 3 HGV Technician (two vacancies)
– Level 3 Welder / Metal Fabricator (two vacancies)
– Level 3 Machining Technician (one vacancy)
All apprenticeships are open to applicants aged 16 and over and are based at Econ’s Ripon headquarters, combining practical, hands-on experience with day-release study at Darlington College or Middlesbrough College.
Each programme runs for three years and offers apprentices the opportunity to develop industry-recognised skills in a real-world engineering environment, supported by experienced professionals and dedicated mentors.
Building Skills for the Future
Econ’s apprenticeship programmes are designed to give learners a strong foundation for long-term careers in engineering. Apprentices gain experience in areas such as vehicle maintenance, fabrication, machining, fault diagnosis and quality-controlled manufacturing, while working with cutting-edge technology in a well-established production facility.
Applicants are required to hold GCSEs at grade 4 or above in Maths and English.
A Family Business Investing in the Next Generation
Founded in 1969, Econ has grown from a small agricultural machinery business into the UK market leader in winter maintenance vehicles, while remaining proudly family-owned.
Commenting on National Apprenticeship Week 2026, Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director at Econ, said: “As a family-owned engineering business, Econ is proud to support the next generation of engineers this National Apprenticeship Week and beyond. Our apprentices are a vital part of our future, and they’re supported every step of the way by experienced professionals, including their own dedicated mentor, ensuring they gain not just technical skills, but the confidence and values needed to build a successful career.
For us, apprenticeships are about passing on knowledge, craftsmanship and the family values that have shaped our business for generations.”
How to Apply
Applications are open now and should be submitted by 1 May 2026 for an August 2026 start.
Interested candidates can email: hr@econeng.co.uk or visit econ.uk.com/apprenticeships-at-econ