From T Level placement to permanent job as Bedford College students secure roles at Lockheed Martin UK
Two T Level students from The Bedford College Group have secured permanent positions at Lockheed Martin UK (LMUK), showing how T Levels can lead directly into skilled, rewarding careers.
Sophie Smith and Micah Taylor, who studied the T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing (Electrical and Electronic Engineering) at Bedford College, joined LMUK in Ampthill for their industry placement in September 2025. They have now been offered permanent roles as Engineering Apprentices with the company, starting 7th September 2026.
During their placement, Sophie and Micah helped restore and modernise an Autonomous AI Rover, inspired by NASA’s Curiosity Rover. They carried out a full rewire and chassis repairs, upgraded the control system and integrated an AI-enabled camera, applying their technical knowledge in a professional engineering environment. The experience gave them a first-hand understanding of the engineering lifecycle and showed LMUK what they could offer as members of the team.
Sophie said: ‘’My experience at Lockheed Martin allowed me to gain exposure to different areas of the business and understand how they integrate and work together to deliver complex engineering projects. The combination of academic learning and industry experience helped me prepare for the transition from education into an apprenticeship and further my career development.’’
Their success highlights the value of the substantial industry placement at the heart of every T Level. By spending extended time with an employer, students develop the technical skills, professional behaviours and confidence that industry needs, while employers get to see future talent in action.
James Woolley, Head of School for Engineering and Motor Vehicle at Bedford College, said: “We are incredibly proud of Sophie and Micah and all that they have achieved. Their success is a testament to their hard work, commitment and talent, and it highlights the real impact that T Levels can have in preparing young people for highly skilled careers. This achievement also demonstrates the value of our strong partnership with Lockheed Martin, whose support helps provide students with industry-relevant experience, professional insight and opportunities to develop the skills employers are looking for. Together, we are helping to create clear pathways into exciting careers in engineering.
Mark Lawson, Engineering Manager at Lockheed Martin UK, said "T-Levels give us an effective route to identify and develop future talent, while broadening entry into the industry. Sophie and Micah’s progress shows the real impact work placements can have on employability and personal development."
The news comes during T Level Week (19-23 October), which celebrates how T Levels are helping young people gain real workplace experience and step into successful careers.
The Bedford College Group offers a wide range of T Level courses for school leavers across its colleges.
To find out more about T Levels and the opportunities available, visit: https://bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/study/school-leavers/tlevels/