Pathways to success: The best industries for apprenticeships in 2024

If you’re interested in starting an apprenticeship in 2024, you may know exactly which industry is right for you. On the other hand, you might be undecided between a couple of choices. Or you may have no idea which direction to take. Having a good working knowledge of a range of industries is always useful. It can identify the best direction for you and flag up the industries to avoid. For instance, it’s useful to know:

• which industries are experiencing high levels of innovation?
• which industries have plenty of career opportunities?
• what’s on the horizon for your industry/ies of choice?

But which industries should you research? In this blog post, we’ve narrowed that search down to three groups: emerging industries, fast growing industries, and industries that have skill shortages. You’ll discover the benefits of working for each type of industry and the top industries in each group in 2024.

Emerging industries

An emerging industry is still in the early stages of its development. Its products or services aren’t widely known about yet. So why would you apply for an apprenticeship in an emerging industry?

  Innovation

Entering an apprenticeship in an emerging industry allows you to be part of groundbreaking work. Along with your colleagues, you can help to shape the future.

  Diverse skills

Industries in their early stages often need a wide range of skills. As an apprentice, you’ll learn not only the basics but also cutting-edge skills and techniques. This diverse skillset will build your adaptability and future proof your career.

  Networking opportunities

As part of a new and emerging industry, you’ll interact with the pioneers of that sector. These connections can open doors for you further down your career path.

  Emerging industries in 2024

The top emerging industries in 2024 are:

• quantum computing and cryptography
• neurotechnology and brain-computer interfaces
• climate technology and environmental solutions

Fast growing industries

A fast growing industry is rapidly expanding and already has a foothold in the market. There’s increasing demand for its products and services and growing interest from investors.
Here’s why you might be interested in an apprenticeship within a fast growing industry.

  High demand for talent

Fast growing industries are hungry for skilled workers. By joining as an apprentice, you’ll be in demand now and after you’ve completed your placement.

  Transferable skills

The skills you gain through your apprenticeship within a fast-growing industry are transferable. They’ll serve you well even if you switch careers later.

  Market relevance

Being part of a rapidly expanding industry means that your skills will remain relevant. Employers appreciate candidates and workers who understand the latest trends and technologies.

  Fast growing industries in 2024

The top fast growing industries in 2024 are:

• biotechnology and healthcare innovations
• artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
• renewable energy and sustainability
• blockchain and decentralised finance (DeFi)
• advanced manufacturing and robotics
• space exploration and satellite technologies
• edge computing and 5G networks

Industries with skill shortages

There’s no one reason why the industries below are suffering from skill shortages. It’s a complicated picture made up of factors like an aging population, the COVID-19 pandemic, after effects of Brexit, a lack of investment in training, and technological advancements.

Here are three reasons you might seek an apprenticeship within an industry with skill shortages.

  Guaranteed employment

Employers are actively searching for new employees with relevant skills. Your apprenticeship could lead to a permanent job offer.

  Salary growth

Scarcity drives up salaries. Within an industry that is crying out for someone with the training and experience you’ll gain through your apprenticeship, your earning potential is improved.

  Social impact

Working and training within certain skill shortage industries, such as healthcare and environmental sciences, means you can make a real difference. Your work will directly impact people’s lives.

  Industries with skill shortages in 2024

The top industries with skill shortages in 2024 are:

• healthcare and life sciences
• technology and IT
• engineering and construction
• advanced manufacturing and robotics
• finance and fintech

Wrapping it up

Working in an emerging industry, a fast growing industry, or an industry with skill shortages all offer their own distinct benefits to apprentices. Whether you have a good idea of which industry you want to train in or you don’t know which direction to take, it’s worthwhile researching a range of relevant industries to find your best fit.