– Angela at Avalon
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communication and The Arts sponsored an aviation industry careers day for high school students in the lead up to Wings over Illawarra Airshow, which attendees have labeled a huge success.
Around 1300 school students, from Sydney and the southern coast region, mostly arrived in buses to take part in the event held on Friday 11 November, and were treated to an immersive aviation experience. The students were given VIP-style access to interact with many aspects of general aviation, including modern and vintage aircraft, airport management, warbird restoration, aircraft museum operations, drones, jump piloting, and engineering and maintenance.
Students were also treated to a variety of air show practice runs, including the Super Constellation and a Paul Bennet Pitts display.
Exhibitors registering for the air show were encouraged to attend a day early to participate in the Schools & Careers Open Day in order to showcase as wide a range as possible of aviation career options.
About 30 exhibitors from all aspects of the aviation industry took part; including Aircraft Maintenance Centre Australia, Skydive Australia, Touchdown Helicopters, HARS, Careflight, Fire and Rescue NSW, Air Inspect Australia, Link Airways, and Defence Force Recruiting.
A number of universities and industry associations also participated, including UNSW, University of Wollongong, Women in Aviation Careers, and the Australian Women Pilot’s Association.
Many of the exhibitors expressed their concern for the industry which is experiencing ageing workforce issues and skills shortages.
Appreciating the opportunity to engage with students on the day, Clara Pawelski of Aircraft Maintenance Australia, said “Our team had a fantastic time at the Schools and Careers Day, chatting to students about opportunities within our company.
"Students that attended the careers day are the future of the industry and AMC are always looking out for the next generation of enthusiastic individuals to take up apprenticeships and join this exciting industry as an aircraft engineer.”
CASA and Airservices Australia also attended to highlight careers available in government services organisations, such as air traffic control, safety management, and administrative roles.
Many participating schools indicated that if the event were to be held again, they would increase the numbers of students attending.