Aircraft Maintenance Technician Review

I carry out scheduled maintenance work on the aircraft as part of a team. I am also part of a team that rectify any emergent work, which resolve/work on known aircraft issues and undertake aircraft modifications of all sizes. The first year of three is spent studying CAA modules at the International Centre for Aerospace Training at Cardiff International Airport. The two years following are spent on 6 monthly rotations including a selection from RAF Lossiemouth, RAF Brize Norton, RAF Odiham, AAC Middle Wallop and Gatwick Airport – to gain experience on and knowledge of the: P-8A Poseidon, C-17 Globemaster 3, CH-47 Chinook, AH-64 Apache and 737-800 BCF conversion work.

Leaving home has encouraged me to be more independent. The initial study period in an academic environment made me much more self-aware and developed my ability to deal with stress and my own emotions as well as those of others. Living in different parts of the country whilst relocating every 6 months has increased my confidence when finding friends and creating a support network as well as expanding my network inside and outside of the industry. With regards to this specific apprenticeship is the largest building block of my future. It paves a way directly into my chosen field and helps to develop my hand skills whilst progressing academically in order to ensure the greatest success for future roles in my industry. The apprenticeship helps to build my network, develop team relationships and create bonds and with people who will play a major role in my future aspirations and the development required to reach the best I can be! In all, this has advanced my decision making and improved my skills in the area of being flexible.

There are many opportunities to take on additional tasks and qualifications, with support from managers and the team. I personally have really enjoyed working my way through the LEAN programmes and progressing onto my Six Sigma qualifications. Once the apprenticeship is complete, I am excited for the opportunities within Boeing, that could include travelling around the world!

Boeing is a reputable global firm that is held with high esteem within the industry; therefore, there are many really good opportunities and experiences to be gained. There are numerous benefits of an apprenticeship with Boeing. I have gained life experiences whilst living and working with my diverse cohort. I have been integrated into teams at a local scale as well being given the chance to work with individuals and teams internationally. The managerial support and encouragement is excellent. This enables career progression and professional development throughout the apprenticeship and even afterwards.

Boeing are highly supportive and offer numerous opportunities. They encourage me to excel in my work as well as surrounding tasks that interest me. The provide funding for additional skill sets such as LEAN and Six Sigma qualifications and are very supportive in allowing this development during and outside of work time.

My training provider provided vast amounts of support in the first year of my apprenticeship. They allowed me to push myself with examinations and never gave up on me - retakes were supported and additional learning offered. They do still provide support for my program however they're less involved now that I am away from the class room and completing my 'on the job' training.

The initial study period in an academic environment made me much more self-aware and developed my ability to deal with stress and my own emotions as well as those of others. Living in different parts of the country whilst relocating every 6 months has increased my confidence when finding friends and creating a support network as well as expanding my network inside and outside of the industry. The training provider has allowed me to achieve my required qualification standards and continues to support my growth and development.

There are limited extra curricular activities at work. There are no team activities or sport groups.

Yes

They're supportive and a great starting block for a career within the aviation industry. Everyone is friendly and most people have an open mind and wish to see other excel. They're supportive and enthusiastic. A great place to learn and develop your skills set within the job role and in surrounding fields of interest.

To always be honest. Participate but listen to all levels of personnel. Don’t be over familiar or overconfident. Complete prior research and practice STAR responses for the interviews. Be able to demonstrate commitment to a range of activities and ensure a well rounded approach and attitude is visible. Be prepared and read all the advanced literature. And always smile!