GKN Aerospace: A Gateway to Pioneering Additive Manufacturing in Aerospace

Are you an aspiring engineer with a passion for shaping the future of flight? GKN Aerospace is offering a truly exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in the cutting edge of additive manufacturing (AM) within the aerospace and space sectors. This **internship** is designed for motivated individuals seeking hands-on experience and a chance to contribute to groundbreaking innovation.

The Opportunity Unpacked:

This role places you at the heart of GKN Aerospace's advanced Powder Bed Additive Manufacturing team, focusing on applications for Aero-Engines and Space Products. You'll be instrumental in the development and refinement of AM technologies, directly contributing to projects that are redefining air travel, making it faster, greener, and more sustainable.

The internship is based at GKN's state-of-the-art Global Technology Centre (GTC) in Filton, Bristol. This £32 million facility is a hub of innovation, fostering collaboration with leading universities, the UK's CATAPULT network, and GKN's supply chain. It's an environment designed to push the boundaries of aerospace technology and support the UK's industrial strategy.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Engineers:

• Hands-On Experience with Cutting-Edge Technology: This isn't just theoretical work. You'll be actively involved in designing products and test specimens, preparing AM build files, running simulations, and supporting manufacturing processes.
• Exposure to Advanced Materials Science: Engage in practical lab work investigating material quality using sophisticated techniques like optical and scanning electron microscopy.
• Comprehensive Skill Development: The responsibilities span a broad spectrum, from initial design and simulation to material characterization, factory design, and even developing software tools for data analysis.
• Industry-Leading Collaboration: Work alongside some of the brightest minds in Additive Manufacturing across the UK and within GKN's European teams.
• Career Launchpad: This year-long placement (academic year 26/27, starting mid-August 2026) is an invaluable opportunity to gain experience that could profoundly influence your career trajectory. GKN Aerospace is known for its commitment to employee development, with excellent training on offer.
• Impactful Work: Contribute to projects that are not only innovative but also play a role in protecting the world's democracies and opening up our planet through sustainable aviation.
• Inclusive and Inspiring Culture: GKN Aerospace actively champions diversity, inclusion, and belonging, fostering a collaborative environment where every voice is valued and encouraged to contribute.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Academic Foundation: You should be currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Material Science.
• Passion for AM: A genuine enthusiasm for additive manufacturing, with a specific interest in aerospace or space science, is crucial.
• Technical Proficiency: Essential experience with CAD packages (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX, Fusion 360, SolidWorks) is required.
• Desirable Skills: While not essential, hands-on manufacturing experience and a background in coding or machine learning would be a significant advantage.
• Personal Attributes: Success in this role will be amplified by strong communication skills, being an excellent team player, possessing passion and energy, a drive for execution, and robust problem-solving abilities.
• Commitment: This is a full-year placement, requiring dedication and a commitment to learning and contributing.

This internship at GKN Aerospace is more than just a job; it's an invitation to be at the forefront of a revolution in aerospace manufacturing. If you are a self-starter eager for a challenging and rewarding experience that can define your career, this opportunity is calling you.