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On Saturday 23 September, we celebrated the 9th annual International Girls in Aviation Day. Brisbane Airport is proud to support aspiring young women who are passionate about pursuing a career in the aviation industry. In conjunction with United Airlines and Aviation Australia, Brisbane Airport has commenced hosting high school students for a week-long immersion program, providing them with exposure to all facets of airport and airline operations.
We met with Tahleah from Burpengary State High School, and Lilly from St Mary’s College Ipswich to discuss how they’ve enjoyed the program so far.
How did you hear about the aviation work experience program?
“I found out about the program though my Aviation Studies class as I work towards attaining my Certificate III in Aviation. My school participates in the Aerospace Gateway Schools Program. It provides students like us, who have an interest in aviation the opportunity to explore different career pathways through some of the world’s leading aviation businesses and organisations.” - Lilly
Where has the immersion program taken you this week?
“I feel very fortunate to have been paired with United Airlines’ Brisbane operations team. With United being one of the world’s largest airlines, the staff are very knowledgeable and have worked at many of United’s worldwide hubs such as, Tokyo, Guam and San Francisco.
Every day we started at 6am sharp to assist with checking in passengers for the flight to San Francisco. Once check in closed, we made our way downstairs to the departure level to help with the boarding process. Yesterday I even got to practise my public announcements when I made the final boarding call for the United flight. I also realised how much my problem-solving skills were being put to the test. There are always little challenges that arise throughout the check in and boarding process that you need to resolve, in order for things run smoothly. - Tahleah
What moment or experience has been the highlight of your week?
“My favourite part has been meeting the United Airlines flight crews and being able to chat with them directly about where their careers have taken them over the years. Every time they have enthusiastically welcomed us and offered a tour of the Boeing 787 flight deck and cabin.
Having a bit of an engineering brain, I initially thought about getting into aircraft structures or avionics maintenance, but I have often heard its extremely competitive. After getting a taste of the atmosphere of working on an international aircraft, the past few days has really stirred my love for travel again.
The team dynamic and camaraderie shown between the United Airlines crew is fantastic. The experience has made me become even more interested in becoming a commercial pilot.” - Lilly
What role do you see yourself moving into after finishing your studies?
“I am a big fan of United Airlines and Air New Zealand and from my time in the international terminal, I have seen that they have a big operation here at Brisbane Airport. It would be so exciting to work for them in a ground crew role after I finish my high school studies. After giving an airport-based role a try, I would love to continue as a Brisbane-based cabin crew member. There are so many airlines hiring from Brisbane like Virgin, Qantas, Jetstar and Alliance, it makes it hard to choose which airline I would like to fly with one day. - Tahleah
Would you recommend the immersion program to other young people who want to work in aviation?
“This immersion program couldn’t have been a better opportunity for me as it confirmed that I want to continue pursuing a career in aviation. It has really made those early morning starts totally worth it. You get excellent support from several experienced aviation professionals and the chance meet to many like-minded people along the way, which is great for networking.
Getting a real behind the scenes experience at Brisbane Airport has also opened my mind about the wide variety of roles that exist. Some of which, like the Airside and Terminal Operations teams that may not always be visible to the public are very important jobs. It is also proof that if you have a passion for the aviation industry, there is a diverse range of roles that could suit anyone. - Lilly