Lincoln College Announced as Newly Established Defence Technical College (DTEC)

Lincoln College is proud to announce it has been selected as one of only five national hubs for the UK’s newly established Defence Technical Excellence Colleges (DTECs).  

This prestigious designation recognises Lincoln College as a national leader in delivering high-quality, industry-standard training for the defence sector. 

Lincoln College will work in close partnership with the region’s Combined Authorities and a network of delivery partners to secure the UK’s "Sovereign Capability". 

By bridging the gap between the classroom and the frontline, the DTEC will ensure the UK remains self-sufficient in maintaining and developing its critical defence assets. 

Lincoln College has a long history of collaboration with the Royal Air Force and global defence businesses, such as Babcock and BAE Systems, including at its cutting-edge Air and Space Institute in Newark-on-Trent.  

This new status allows the College to scale that expertise, co-designing curricula with key industry firms to provide a direct, high-speed pipeline into defence careers. Training will focus on next-generation technical specialisms, including aerospace engineering, digital defence technologies and advanced manufacturing.  

Through the DTEC "Hub and Spoke" model, Lincoln College will also lead a network of regional providers, sharing best practices and specialised equipment to uplift the entire region’s technical skills offer. 

Mark Locking, Chief Executive of the Lincoln College Group, said: "We are absolutely delighted that Lincoln College is selected as one of the UK’s five Defence Technical Excellence Colleges.  

“This designation recognises our position at the heart of the UK's defence and industrial base. We look forward to working with our students, staff and employer partners to enhance defence training in areas that are vital to our national security.  

“By aligning our training with the needs of the frontline, we will create a nationally significant, regional centre of excellence that delivers defence technical education, workforce supply and innovation in line with the UK’s Defence Industrial Strategy." 

Deputy Commandant of the Royal Air Force College, Cranwell, Steve Harrison, said: "As Deputy Commandant of the Royal Air Force College, I'm proud to support Lincoln College.  Recognition as a Defence Technical Excellence College is a huge achievement, one that reflects the strength of the College and our close partnership; reflecting a shared commitment to developing the next generation of highly skilled technical professionals.

"Together, we are helping to build a future workforce equipped with the expertise and innovation needed to support the UK’s defence capabilities."

Councillor Claire Penny, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Development at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Since opening, the ASI has been providing world‑class aviation and space training pathways for hundreds of young people not just in the district but further afield. It’s put Newark on the educational and industry map, offering fantastic opportunities for learners to gain qualifications.

"News that the Lincoln College Group and the ASI will be one of only a few Defence Technical Excellence Colleges across the UK shows how successful the journey has been so far. The ASI is one of several Newark Town Board projects that is having an amazing impact on the district and I’m proud to see it’s reaching greater hights in not only supporting the local area but contributing to the UK defence and security base too.”

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith, said: “This investment in new Technical Excellence Colleges will give learners across England access to world-class training and a clear route into well-paid, rewarding careers. And because the best colleges will share their expertise with others, the whole country benefits.” 

Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire Dame Andrea Jenkyns said: "Lincoln College being named a national hub for a Defence Technical Excellence college is a massive win for our area. This isn't just about another designation; it's about delivering the high-grade, technical skills our country needs to be self-sufficient.

“By working directly with industry leaders, the College is ensuring our youngsters are at the front of the queue for high-wage, high-skill careers. I have seen the world-class work at the Air and Space Institute, and this new status cements Lincolnshire as the heart of the UK's defence industry."

To find out more about our Defence pathways, please visit our website.