Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just the future it’s shaping the way businesses operate today. As AI adoption accelerates across industries, organisations face a critical challenge: how to develop and retain technical AI talent that can deliver real-world solutions. Decoded’s AI Engineer Apprenticeship, based on the L6 Machine Learning Engineer Apprenticeship standard, bridges this gap by equipping learners with the skills to design, build, and deploy scalable AI solutions.
In the third instalment of our series on Decoded’s apprenticeship education programmes, David Walker, Decoded’s Chief Product Officer, shines a light on the unique benefits of the AI Engineer L6 Apprenticeship and how it empowers employees and businesses to remain at the forefront of innovation.
The UK is experiencing unprecedented demand for AI talent. According to PwC UK’s AI Jobs Barometer, job postings for AI roles have grown 3.6 times faster than the average for all jobs over the past decade. However, a significant skills gap persists, with more than 70% of businesses struggling to find AI talent internally.
Investing in AI talent development not only addresses this gap but also builds stronger, more innovative teams. Research shows that companies with robust AI capabilities achieve up to 40% higher productivity and significantly improved operational efficiency. However, for sustainable transformation, AI expertise must extend beyond isolated teams and become embedded throughout organisations.
The AI Engineer Apprenticeship is a 15-month programme designed to give professionals the practical skills needed to implement AI solutions that drive business impact. While it is grounded in the Level 6 Machine Learning Engineer Apprenticeship standard, the programme goes beyond machine learning, covering a wide range of AI engineering competencies.
Key areas of focus include:
– AI and Machine Learning Development: Building models that solve real business problems.
– Deploying AI in Production: Ensuring AI solutions are scalable, secure, and maintainable.
– AI Ethics and Responsible AI: Addressing governance and compliance in AI adoption.
– MLOps and Automation: Integrating AI into daily workflows for maximum efficiency
By the end of the programme, learners will be equipped to apply these skills immediately – whether automating processes, optimising data-driven decision-making, or improving customer experiences.
The AI Engineer Apprenticeship is tailored for professionals who want to apply AI solutions within a business context. It’s ideal for those who:
– Regularly work with Python and data analysis tools.
– Are transitioning into AI or machine learning-focused roles.
– Want to bridge the gap between data science, software engineering, and AI operations.
– Aim to implement AI in production environments rather than working solely on experimental models
Typically, the programme attracts data analysts, data scientists, and software engineers who are looking to advance their careers by developing expertise in AI systems and solutions.
For organisations, building AI talent internally is more sustainable and cost-effective than competing in a talent war. Leveraging the Apprenticeship Levy to develop existing employees creates a culture of innovation and reduces the risk of attrition.
Key benefits include:
– Future-Proofing the Workforce: Employees trained in AI become invaluable assets, capable of embedding AI into existing operations.
– Mitigating Talent Loss: Structured development opportunities increase retention by providing clear career progression paths.
– Driving Measurable AI ROI: Organisations with internal AI expertise report greater cost savings, improved efficiency, and stronger competitive positioning.
This apprenticeship isn’t just about learning AI- it’s about applying AI to solve real business challenges while advancing professionally.
– Career Growth: Learners gain access to strategic roles and leadership opportunities in AI-focused areas.
– Enhanced Problem-Solving: AI-trained professionals are equipped to tackle complex challenges and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
– Recognition: Completing the apprenticeship provides a Level 6 qualification, equivalent to a degree, and signals expertise in AI and machine learning.
The AI Engineer Apprenticeship, based on the Level 6 Machine Learning Apprenticeship standard, is more than a training program. It’s a strategic investment for businesses to embed AI capabilities, drive innovation, and future-proof their workforce.
If you’re an employer looking to develop AI expertise in your team – or an individual eager to take the next step in AI-driven problem-solving – this is the programme to make it happen.
Find out more about how the AI Engineer Apprenticeship can transform your organisation.
If you’d like to learn more about Decoded and how we can help transform your
organisation, we’d love to hear from you.
