McCann helps shape new highways electrical apprenticeship with Nottingham College
McCann is helping to shape the next generation of highways electrical professionals through a new Level 2 Highways Electrical Maintenance and Installation Operative apprenticeship, developed in partnership with Nottingham College and leading employers from across the highways sector.
Launching in September 2026, the apprenticeship has been developed collaboratively by Nottingham College, McCann, Amey, Crown Highways, Colas and Kier, with support from Lantra. The development of this course was the natural next step in McCann’s long-term relationship with Nottingham College. The programme has been designed to reflect the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed across today’s highways electrical industry, giving apprentices a strong foundation for a career in the sector.
The programme will combine classroom-based learning with practical, industry-led training, including delivery at McCann’s dedicated training facilities. Experienced Nottingham College tutors will work alongside industry partners to provide apprentices with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience they need to succeed in a real working environment.
For employers, the programme provides a practical route to recruiting and developing future highways electrical operatives, while ensuring training remains closely aligned with the evolving needs of the industry.
Key benefits include:
- A nationally recognised Level 2 apprenticeship.
- A curriculum shaped directly by highways employers.
- A central Midlands location with national accessibility.
- Practical, industry-led training and experience.
- A clear pathway for employers to recruit and develop future talent.
- Ongoing collaboration between education and industry to ensure the programme continues to meet changing sector needs.
Catherine Brookes, Strategic Highways Director at McCann and a member of Nottingham College’s Engineering Advisory Board, said:
“The highways industry cannot continue to rely on traditional approaches if we want to attract, develop and retain the talent needed for the future. Strong partnerships between employers and education providers are essential if we are serious about tackling the skills challenges facing our sector.
“What makes this programme unique is that it has been shaped by industry. McCann, Amey, Crown Highways, Colas and other employers have come together alongside Nottingham College to help influence how the apprenticeship is delivered, ensuring learners develop the skills and experience that employers genuinely need.
“Rather than waiting for the future workforce to arrive, we are actively helping to shape it. By bringing industry and education together, we can create better opportunities for learners, strengthen our sector and build a more sustainable future for highways.”
Maxine Blake, Head of Industries at Nottingham College, added:
“This collaboration creates long-term value for all partners. Employers can recruit and develop the skilled workforce they need, apprentices access high-quality training and sustainable careers, and Nottingham College continues to fulfil its role in supporting economic growth, social mobility and the future resilience of key industries.
“Together, we are creating a model that not only meets today’s workforce needs but helps secure the future of the highways sector for years to come.”
Building the highways workforce of tomorrow
The new apprenticeship is an example of how closer collaboration between industry and education can help address the skills challenges facing the highways sector.
By combining the expertise of leading employers with the teaching capabilities of Nottingham College, the programme will give apprentices the opportunity to develop relevant technical skills while gaining an understanding of the demands of working in the highways electrical industry.
Employers are now being invited to recruit apprentices for the September 2026 intake.
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