AirTanker Services proudly announce that six apprentices have now started their journey on our Aeronautical Engineering Apprenticeship Scheme.
Following the launch of our Scheme at the start of 2016, over 200 applications were received – with only six placements available, this proved heavy interest and competition. All potential candidates faced a comprehensive 2-stage assessment and interview, and from that our 6 apprentices were selected and welcomed.
On 24th August, the Apprentices, together with their families, visited the Voyager Hub at RAF Brize Norton. Here they were given an overview of AirTanker along with a tour of the facility which included the hangar and a Voyager aircraft.
The tour provided the Apprentices an opportunity to take a look around and inside one of our aircraft currently undergoing its most thorough check. With engines and interior exposed and components tested and demonstrated during the tour, it was clear to see that both the Apprentices and their families were in awe of the aircraft and environment, picking up on the camaraderie and unique atmosphere between the military and civilian workforce. They also took the opportunity to ask questions of our Managing Director, engineers and apprenticeship team.
All six apprentices are excited about their journey ahead, many of whom come from military or engineering backgrounds and have a real interest for aviation engineering.
Talking about this opportunity, the Apprentices shared:
“This Apprenticeship scheme is such an amazing opportunity. Having done some theoretical learning at engineering college, I can’t wait to start the practical side and get some hands on experience. I even recently changed the brakes on my Mum’s car to get me started.”
“Being interested in the Royal Air Force and engineering, this apprenticeship for me is the best of both worlds. The possibility of becoming a Sponsored Reservist in the future is great!”
“I’m really looking forward to getting started and learning about the aircraft and the engineering role with AirTanker. It’s been a really great visit today and I’m now even more excited about the next part of the journey.”
Managing Director, AirTanker Services stated:
“I was delighted to welcome our first 6 apprentices, together with their families, at the start of their apprenticeship journey. The standard of each Apprentice, as well as their enthusiasm and confidence was very impressive. Their parents were excited by what we had to show them and grateful for the opportunity to see what we have to offer. The whole day was a great success and has got the Apprenticeship Scheme off to a flying start.”
Technical Training Manager, AirTanker Services has been the Project Lead for introducing the Scheme and added:
“This has been an incredible team effort in reaching such a key milestone in only 8 months. To see our first 6 excited Apprentices and their families at AirTanker was extremely rewarding. I look forward to watching them progress within our Company, and to repeating the Apprenticeship Scheme in 2017.”