Dennis Eagle Recognises Apprentices at SMMT National Apprenticeship Showcase 2026
Dennis Eagle joined industry leaders at the SMMT National Apprenticeship Showcase in the House of Lords to celebrate the next generation of talent.
6,000
33%
1,700
What Happened
The SMMT National Apprenticeship Showcase, held at the House of Lords, brought together 20 businesses, 20 MPs, and more than 60 apprentices. Speakers included Lord Chris Fox and Konstanze Scharring from SMMT, who noted a 33% increase in automotive apprenticeships to 6,000, with 1,700 starting this year. Dennis Eagle participated with three apprentices and several senior team members.
“Events such as this are an essential way of recognising the hard work and inspirational efforts of the apprentices so vital to the future of our industry.”
6,000apprentices
33% increase from previous year, with 1,700 new starts this academic year
Why this matters
The showcase highlights the automotive industry's commitment to nurturing young talent, with the number of apprentices rising 33% to 6,000, underscoring the sector's investment in its future workforce.
Terms in This Story
- apprenticeship
- A program that combines on-the-job training with classroom learning, allowing individuals to earn while they learn a skilled trade.
- SMMT
- The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, a UK trade association representing the automotive industry.
- HGV
- Heavy Goods Vehicle, a large truck or lorry used for transporting goods.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.