United Utilities secured 64th place on the annual list, which is published by the government and career platform HIGHERiN to recognise organisations offering outstanding apprenticeship opportunities.
With more than 160,000 apprenticeship employers across England, the Top 100 ranking places United Utilities among the leading providers in the country.
Jacqui Kawczak, head of early careers and education at United Utilities, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers.
“This achievement reflects the dedication of our teams, mentors and apprentices, and highlights our commitment to creating meaningful career opportunities through high-quality apprenticeship programmes.”
The ranking is based on three key criteria: achievement (completion rates), commitment (the range and quality of opportunities offered), and apprentice experience (feedback from participants).
In its most recent intake, the North West water firm welcomed 84 new apprentices across a broad range of roles, including scientists, project controllers, digital specialists, and, for the first time, trainee woodland officers.
More than two-thirds of the new starters were aged 16 to 18, underlining the role of apprenticeships in supporting young people into the workforce.
Additionally, 21 per cent are female, 11 per cent are from ethnic minority backgrounds, and 10 per cent identify as having a disability.
Ms Kawczak said: “We remain passionate about developing future talent, supporting apprentices to achieve their goals, and providing an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
“This recognition is another important milestone in our commitment to developing future talent, supporting social mobility and creating career opportunities that benefit both individuals and our business.”
United Utilities’ apprentices earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience alongside formal study of Apprenticeship Standards, which are endorsed by Skills England.
Programme lengths range from 18 months to six years.