Prior to applying to CWA, I had always wanted to work in the engineering sector working on aircraft, either in Civil Aviation or in Military Aviation.

After finishing Sixth form, I applied for the Engineering Apprenticeship at CWA, but was unable to secure an employer to support me. I realised then that I might benefit from more experience and knowledge in engineering, before I tried again, so I chose to enrol on the Level 3 full-time Engineering course. This was the perfect decision for me as it gave me the opportunity to be able to learn more about engineering, gain valuable work experience and understand more about apprenticeships.

One of the best moments during my course, was when I was able to use all the skills that I had learnt in the workshop, to be able to complete my own project. I chose to make my own replica of a Star Wars Lightsabre from aluminium. I spent several days designing, talking with tutors, redesigning and eventually coming to a final design, with all the dimensions that I wanted for my project. After many weeks of ‘turning it down’, making tiny tweaks and working on it together with my tutors, I was able to finish my project successfully.

Studying this course was very enjoyable because of the number of hands-on and real-life engineering skills I was able to gain. I was able to express my creativity and understand more about the engineering sector. The tutors in the department helped me throughout the year, so that I could achieve more, which ultimately helped me get the apprenticeship that I wanted at Marshall Aerospace as a Level 3 Aircraft Fitter.