STARK's Swindon drone factory has recruited its first cohort of apprentices for roles in AI-enabled unmanned systems production.
The 40,000 sq ft facility opened in 2025 as the company's first UK production site.
Recruitment began in late May 2026, with further summer placements and year-long STEM apprenticeships planned for the coming months.
Will Stone, MP for Swindon North, announced the news on social media on May 26, 2026.
"STARK has just brought its first cohort of apprentices into the Swindon factory," he said. "They have more summer placements and placement years for STEM-related roles coming out through the summer."
The Swindon Advertiser covered the story in reports published on May 27 and May 30, 2026.
The apprenticeships provide training opportunities in a sector that produces advanced drone technologies with applications in security and law enforcement.
These AI-enabled unmanned systems support functions such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and mitigation efforts critical to modern policing and prison security operations.
By investing in local apprentices, STARK contributes to building a skilled workforce equipped to handle the technical demands of manufacturing and supporting these platforms.
The STEM programs target individuals seeking careers in engineering and technology fields related to unmanned aerial vehicles.
Summer placements offer flexible entry points for students, while the year-long apprenticeships deliver comprehensive on-site experience at the Swindon location.
This development reflects ongoing efforts to expand drone manufacturing capabilities within the United Kingdom.
Security professionals benefit from domestic production of reliable unmanned systems that meet operational requirements for accuracy and performance.
The first cohort represents the beginning of a sustained recruitment strategy at the facility.
Local workforce expansion in this area strengthens the supply chain for drone technologies used by highway patrol, sheriff offices, and other law enforcement units.
The focus on apprenticeships ensures knowledge transfer and innovation in the design of next-generation unmanned systems.
