When I told the careers advisor and my headmaster i was applying for an aeronautical apprenticeship his response was 'who do you think you are boy'.
They were amazed when i joined BOAC.
To the main point though, the low esteem with which engineering is held in this country is a problem. Even within the industry many companies do not value their engineers and technicians. Also the current pay and conditions offered to new entrants are no great shakes.
I would like to see intelligent, keen youngsters wanting to join us as their first choice because they see an interesting and rewarding career on offer.
I don't want to see them taking 'whatevers going' just to have a job. This is an industry that needs the former and not the latter.
End of sermon.