This week, we’re proud to celebrate Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2026, taking place from 2–6 February 2026 - a key moment to spotlight the talent, energy and future potential apprentices bring to Northern Ireland’s economy.

As Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2026 takes place from 2–6 February 2026, the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) is proud to celebrate the vital contributions apprentices make to the region’s skills pipeline - especially at this 

AMIC currently employs two Apprentice IT Technicians, recruited as part of its commitment to developing next‑generation talent crucial for supporting advanced manufacturing innovation. The apprentices are completing the Level 3 ICT Apprenticeship programme with Belfast Metropolitan College, covering areas including networking infrastructure, software development, cybersecurity, systems support and applied digital skills. This programme combines academic learning with on‑the‑job experience at AMIC’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities, including the new Global Point campus opening in early 2026.

Building Skills for a High‑Value Manufacturing Economy

AMIC’s apprenticeship initiative forms part of a broader strategy to address skills shortages across Northern Ireland’s engineering, digital and manufacturing sectors - a priority also echoed across this year’s NI Apprenticeship Week events. The Department for the Economy emphasises that apprenticeships are essential to strengthening the workforce, driving innovation and supporting long-term business growth across the region.

Through direct experience with industrial systems, digitalisation, IoT, AI, data analytics and advanced manufacturing technologies, AMIC’s apprentices are gaining practical competencies that position them for long-term career success - whether progressing to higher-level apprenticeships, roles within Queen’s University Belfast or employment across the wider NI manufacturing sector.

AMIC’s apprenticeship programme - delivered in partnership with Belfast Met - is a direct example of how City Deal investment is enabling new pathways into STEM, digital and engineering roles.

A Crucial Time for AMIC and Northern Ireland’s Industrial Future

With the opening of the Factory of the Future on the horizon, apprentices are already playing a hands-on role in ensuring the digital infrastructure, technical systems and operational readiness of AMIC’s facilities. Their work supports AMIC’s mission to drive commercial innovation, boost inward investment and cement Northern Ireland’s position as a leader in high-value manufacturing.

This contribution aligns strongly with the purpose of Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week, which aims to recognise how apprenticeships benefit both individuals and