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easyJet Captain Inspires Aviation Students!

Students on Aviation Levels 2 and 3 had the privilege of hearing from Kate McWilliams, easyJet Captain and Trainer. 

Kate was the world's youngest female captain, and shared her inspirational journey with the students, from the training she underwent to some of her experiences in the cockpit. She started her career with Air Cadets and had considered training for military aviation, but started training with CTC (now L3 Aviation), flew as a pilot for 11 years, before becoming a Captain 4 years ago!

The students, many of whom are aspiring to become pilots, learnt about aviation history and the skills you need for a career. 

"It's the extra things that make your application stand out - extra-curricular activities and volunteering"

There was also an opportunity for the students to ask questions, which included different training providers available, Kate's toughest descent and what she loves most about the job. 

"You can be based wherever you want to be and everyday is different - I get to fly all over Europe!"

Kate also discussed some of the issues she's faced as a female captain, explaining that the industry average for female pilots stands at 5%. Her plans for the future are built around "getting more women into the industry and changing a lot of mindsets."

Here's what some of the students had to say about the talk!

"It was very inspirational to see a female pilot, as it made me more determined to pursue my dream to become a commercial pilot, it was also interesting to listen [to] the different ways of how you could reach the flight deck through the airline."
Esha, Aviation Level 3 Year 2 

"It was a good insight into the career of commercial aviation and gave me an informative view of becoming a pilot"
Cameron, Aviation Level 3 Year 2

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