An update from the Aerospace Awards Committee

There is no ’I’ in team; however, there is one in Neil. Neil Sheath, our Aerospace Awards Chairman with more than 13 years of dedicated service, distinguished leadership, and a strong commitment to STEM education, has played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of the Coachmakers among industry leaders. Through his efforts and indeed those of the serving committee members, enhanced levels of sponsorship have been secured, positioning The Worshipful Company of Coachmakers and Coach Harness Makers to move forward with confidence into its 350th year and beyond.

The Livery year runs from 1st September to 30th August, and all scholarships are awarded within this period. Applications for the 2026 awards are now open, with closing dates for University and Engineering Scholarships ending at midnight on 31st January and 28th February 2026, respectively.

Globally, the aerospace market is currently valued at approximately US$360 billion. With projected annual growth exceeding 7%, the sector is expected to reach more than US$665 billion by 2035. Despite this rapid expansion, the UK aerospace and defence industry continues to face a well-documented shortage of STEM skills. As such, the Coachmakers’ aerospace awards, scholarships, and bursaries have never been more vital.

This Livery year – aligned with the academic year – offers more scholarships and greater funding than ever before. The committee continues to strengthen partnerships with leading aerospace organisations, including Lockheed Martin UK, Airbus Defence & Space, and Aerotron, while also securing substantial contributions from trustees to support flying scholarships and broader STEM initiatives.

Scholarships are available for undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD students pursuing aeronautical engineering and mechanical engineering with an aviation focus. Notably, one university scholarship sponsored by Airbus Defence & Space is available for a Master’s student specialising in space-oriented engineering disciplines. Applications for this award closed on 30th September 2025, with funds disbursed in October 2025.

In addition, scholarships are offered for aspiring aviation mechanics, technicians, and engineers to fund career-enhancing qualifications and training, such as Part 66 licences, licence extensions, and specialist courses, including fabrication skills. A flying scholarship is also available, offering the opportunity to learn to fly in the historic Tiger Moth, the closing date for this is midnight 30th June 2026.

All awards are open to candidates under the age of 35. Award winners will also be invited to the Coachmakers’ Aerospace Industry Dinner, held annually in November at a prestigious London venue. During this black-tie event, each winner will be formally presented with a Certificate of Achievement in the presence of senior executives from the UK and European aerospace industries. Needless to say, not only do these awards offer opportunities and financial assistance in the short term, but association with the Coachmakers is potentially long-term and offers exciting networking opportunities, with ongoing engagement and support into and beyond their early career.