As a training co-pilot for British Airways, Andy Perkins is used to having his head above the clouds and enjoying a career that is sky-high!
During his recent visit to Space Studio West London, Andy spent time with students revealing how they can follow in his footsteps.
Andy has made several visits to the school in recent years always with the aim of inspiring the pupils who sit before him to consider a career in aerospace and provide them with the guidance to navigate the journey they have to take.
Space Studio West London (SSWL) is a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) school with aerospace also a specialism and one that seamlessly combines these subjects.
Here Andy explains why aerospace is an important industry that young people should consider as a career option.
Aerospace is not elitist
Explains Andy: ‘’It’s essential for the next generation to see that aviation, airlines and aerospace engineering as accessible and realise that they are not elitist, which is the perception that some people have.
‘’It is possible to carve out a successful career in this profession without coming from a wealthy background. I didn’t have £100,000 to spend on training and I chose instead, initially to take another job and gliding was my flying hobby. However, I was able to use it to help me turn it into a career as a pilot and that was my drive behind it. I have been with British Airways since 2005, I am currently a training co-pilot and I love my job!
‘’To succeed in this profession it’s really all about the hard work you’re prepared to put in to achieve success and knowing where to go to ask for the help to succeed.’’
Carving out a path
‘’The aim of the talk at Space Studio West London was to provide the students with the knowledge and information they need to know that the aviation industry is accessible to them. It was an opportunity to showcase to the students that if they apply themselves and put their minds to it then they can achieve a successful career in aviation.
‘’The students seemed to appreciate my honest insight and advice which was encouraging. They could also see how the school’s STEM focus suits the aviation industry.
See the world
‘’Being a pilot gives you the opportunity to see different cultures and travel the world.
‘’It’s a fantastic career in my opinion and the students seemed to really appreciate that someone had taken the time to come and speak to them.
‘’Aviation is fun and helps to bring people together from all corners of the world.’’