Last year, we spoke to a group of apprentices at the beginning of their journey with the Panasonic Technical Services apprenticeship program. They were full of anticipation, ready to swap textbooks for toolboxes and start their placements in real-world aviation environments.
With Aviation Maintenance Day on the horizon, we caught up with two apprentices, Madeleine Fletcher and Sophie Rayner, to find out how it’s going. Both are now on placement with DEA, a specialist technology-led provider of aerial data acquisition services. Based at Gamston Airport in the UK, this is a fantastic chance to dive into more practical, real-world training.
“The hands-on experience is very diverse,” says Rayner. “Some of the tasks we get involved in don’t come around very often, so it’s important to take those opportunities. That’s how you learn.”
Over the last few months, the apprentices have taken on everything from engine removals and propeller installs to corrosion protection, de-icing boot repairs, and fuel tank replacements. This experience covers a range of aircraft, including the Diamond DA42 and multiple King Air variants.
“There’s a lot of work that goes into maintaining an aircraft that people don’t usually think about,” Rayner adds. “I’ve gained so much respect for the work that happens behind the scenes every time we fly.”
The variety and depth of the work suit Fletcher, too. “I’ve gone from shadowing on smaller tasks to being trusted to carry out inspections on my own,” she says. “Getting my hands messy is exactly what I hoped for. It’s met all my expectations.”
Both apprentices reflect on how much they’ve grown, not just technically, but personally. “The team at DEA has been amazing,” says Rayner. “Their support has helped me grow quickly and feel like a valued member of the workshop.”
Fletcher adds, “I’ve built good relationships with the people I work with, and that’s helped me become a better team player. That’s been just as important as the technical side.”
This shows just how valuable these placements are as part of the Panasonic Technical Services apprenticeship program. Getting practical experience is vital, but the work also develops other vital skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
Of course, it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Rayner admits that the sheer volume of information has been a challenge. “It’s a lot to take in quickly,” she says. “But I’ve put in time both in and out of work to stay on top of it. It’s worth it when you realise how much you’re progressing.”
For both Fletcher and Rayner, the experience has cemented their ambitions and given them a clear sense of direction. “I’ve realised what my career could look like,” says Rayner. “Training alongside engineers with years of experience and seeing their professionalism has inspired me. I can see a future in this.”
Fletcher agrees: “Being at DEA has reinforced my career ambitions by developing my excitement for the job and showing me the possibilities and scope of the work I will be carrying out in the future. I have been lucky to be a part of such an amazing team of engineers. They've introduced me to such a positive work environment where they have all been a part of my development as an engineer."
To find out more about upcoming apprenticeships, take a look here.