Nearly 60 young women from across South East Queensland are participating in Virgin Australia’s inaugural Future Aviators program.
The initiative is designed to ignite a passion for aviation careers in the next generation of female leaders.
It marks a further significant step in addressing gender disparity within the aviation industry.
Future Aviators Program
The program, aimed at Year 7 and 8 students from schools spanning from Bundamba to Miami, offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into the multifaceted world of aviation.
Students will embark on a comprehensive tour of Virgin Australia’s aircraft maintenance hangar, its bustling head office, and its state-of-the-art training centers, including the coveted flight simulators where pilots hone their skills.
This initiative is a direct response to the persistent gender pay gap and the underrepresentation of women in specialized technical roles within the aviation sector, such as engineering and piloting.
Virgin Australia aims to showcase the diverse range of career opportunities available. It will shed light on the often-overlooked technical roles that are crucial to the smooth operation of any airline.
A Proactive Approach to Gender Diversity
Lisa Burquest, Virgin Australia’s Chief People Officer, emphasizes the airline’s proactive approach to tackling these challenges. “Aviation certainly faces challenges in gender diversity, however we don’t shy away from them.”
“We’re leaning in with a determined focus, not only to inspire students to consider a career in aviation, but to actively support them on that path,” she states.
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” perfectly aligns with the Future Aviators program.
“We are committed to building awareness. The next generation of girls will have insight to opportunities and experiences that evoke an early love for aviation. This will fueltheir career choice as they complete their schooling,” Burquest explains.
The program aims to demystify lesser-known roles within the industry, providing students with a clear understanding of the diverse career paths available.
“This is a small but important step in increasing the visibility of some lesser-known roles in aviation for students. They may not know where their skills could take them, or what roles are even available to them across the industry.”
“We look forward to building on the program in future years,” Burquest adds.
Highlighting a Broad Range of Aviation Roles
Beyond showcasing pilots and engineers, the program highlights the broader spectrum of aviation roles. This included the critical work done within the Integrated Operations Centre, responsible for maintaining streamlined flight operations.
Recognizing the extensive technical training required for roles like engineering and piloting, Virgin Australia is reaching out to early high school students. This opens doors and provides guidance to those who may not yet have a clear career path.
Natalie Allen, Aerospace Gateway Schools Project Manager, underscores the importance of industry and education collaboration. “The Aerospace Gateway to Industry Schools Program is led by Aviation Australia.”
“It connects industry and schools to provide hands-on learning and career pathways in aerospace,” she explains.
“We’re excited to partner with Virgin Australia to deliver the Future Aviators program. This inspires the next generation of aviation talent from six participating Aerospace Gateway Schools across Southeast Queensland.”
The day culminates in an engaging panel event featuring inspiring women working across various departments at Virgin Australia.
This provides students with a unique opportunity to ask questions and gain insights. They are able connect with professionals who are shaping the future of aviation.
This direct interaction aims to create relatable role models and demonstrate the tangible possibilities within the industry.
Summary
Virgin Australia’s Future Aviators program is an investment in the future of aviation. It aims to create a more diverse and inclusive industry where young women are empowered to pursue their dreams and reach new heights.
By providing early exposure and guidance, Virgin Australia is laying the foundation for a generation of female aviators. They will be instrumental in contributing to the continued growth and innovation of the industry.
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