Led by the Department for the Economy, this week-long programme of events aims to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities, promote participation, and showcase the vital contributions apprentices make across diverse sectors.

The theme for this year, ‘Getting it Right for You,’ highlights how apprenticeships can offer flexible and varied pathways that align with individual needs and support the development of Northern Ireland’s economy.

Technician Apprenticeships at Queen’s provide integral technical expertise that drives world-class research and supports high-quality teaching, shaping the next generation of leaders. Their work strengthens local partnerships, global collaborations, and the development of the STEM workforce. With approximately 270 technicians—5.7% of the University’s staff—across three Faculties and two Directorates, their contributions are essential to Queen’s success and societal impact.

Queen’s participation in NI Apprenticeship Week reflects its ongoing dedication and commitment to fostering a highly skilled workforce and providing opportunities that benefit individuals, communities, and industries alike.

Gillian Riddell, Queen's Technical Lead, emphasised the importance of Queen's Technician Apprenticeships: "Without our technicians, we wouldn’t be the world-class university we are today. Their expertise is essential to achieving our strategic priorities in education, research and innovation 
and impact, allowing us to further strengthen and widen our local partnerships and global collaborations and, ultimately, our positive contribution to society". 

Queen’s Technician Apprenticeship Programme offers individuals a unique opportunity to become part of a dynamic community, receive expert mentorship, and enjoy a competitive salary. For Queen’s, apprenticeships provide fresh talent, foster innovation, and contribute to building a skilled, diverse, and inclusive workforce.

For more information on Technician Apprenticeships at Queen's, visit: qubtechnicians@qub.ac.uk