From Pre-Apprenticeship to Degree Engineer: Grace’s Journey Through Gen2

For many engineers, career progression is built through experience, determination and the right opportunities. For Grace McCrickard, that journey began shortly after leaving school and has led her to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering while building a successful career in industry.

Grace, now an Electrical Project Engineer at Amentum, recently completed her BEng in Electrical Plant Engineering, balancing degree-level study alongside the demands of working within the engineering sector.

Her pathway into engineering began with Gen2, where she first joined a pre-apprenticeship programme, now known as Step in2 Apprenticeships. The programme gave Grace the opportunity to develop foundational skills and gain an introduction to the engineering industry before progressing onto her apprenticeship.

From there, she continued to build her career through practical experience as an electrician and working on building control systems before moving into a role as an Electrical Project Engineer, delivering projects within industry.

After several years of practical experience, Grace decided to take the next step in her professional development by studying for a BEng degree. Her studies were supported through the City & Guilds Charles Brook Bursary, which provides funding to help aspiring engineers progress their qualifications.

Returning to academic study at degree level presented new challenges, particularly when it came to exams.

“I had always struggled academically, so returning to exams after ten years felt daunting,” Grace explains. “But the support from my tutors made a huge difference. They were passionate about the subjects they taught and always willing to help, which really helped me understand the material.”

One of the highlights of the programme came during a Plant Automation module, where Grace designed and programmed her own robot. With no previous programming experience, the project initially felt like a significant challenge.

“Seeing the robot complete the tasks I had programmed was incredibly rewarding,” she says. “It was something I had never done before, so finishing that project felt like a huge achievement.”

Throughout the course, Grace discovered that persistence and patience were key to her success. Taking the time to practise and revisit difficult concepts helped her build confidence and develop effective ways of learning.

Since completing the degree, Grace has been able to apply the knowledge gained directly to her role, strengthening her understanding of electrical control systems and plant engineering. She says the qualification has also improved her confidence when analysing project designs and contributing new ideas within engineering projects.

Grace completed her studies through Gen2 in partnership with the University of Cumbria. The BEng (Hons) Plant Engineering top-up degree allows engineers with a relevant Level 5 qualification, such as a Foundation Degree or HND, to progress to degree level while continuing to work in industry.

This year, Gen2 is also offering six funded places through the City & Guilds Charles Brook Bursary, providing an opportunity for engineers to progress their qualifications with financial support.

With demand for skilled engineers continuing to grow across Cumbria, opportunities like this play an important role in supporting talented individuals like Grace to progress their careers while strengthening the region’s engineering workforce.

Applications for this year’s funded places are now open. To find out more, contact