Building the Future: The Power of Apprenticeships at AerFin

As we celebrate National Apprenticeships Week, it’s the perfect time to highlight the incredible value that apprenticeships bring — not only to young professionals starting their careers, but also to businesses like AerFin that are committed to developing future talent.

At AerFin, we see apprenticeships as more than just a training programme. They are a gateway to rewarding careers, a solution to industry-wide skills shortages, and a key part of our strategy to grow talent from within.

Investing in Future Talent

AerFin’s apprenticeship programme has been instrumental in developing highly skilled professionals who contribute directly to the success of our business. We take on multiple apprentices every year, providing them with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in both technical and business roles. Our promise to our apprentices is a brilliant future.

Simon Bayliss, AerFin’s Chief Operating Officer, knows firsthand the value of an apprenticeship. His own career began with a British Airways apprenticeship in Caerphilly, South Wales in 1988 where he had the opportunity to work on Concorde, an experience that helped shape his passion for aviation.

“Apprenticeships give people real-world experience that simply can’t be replicated in a classroom. When I look back at my own apprenticeship, I realise just how much it shaped my career. That’s why I’m such a strong advocate for bringing new talent into the industry through apprenticeships,” said Simon.

From Apprenticeship to Full-Time Success

Our apprenticeship success rate speaks for itself. Kieran Jenkins, our very first apprentice, has since transitioned into a full-time role within the engine shop at AerFin. Elyssa Maclennan-Wood, another former apprentice, has also secured a permanent position with the marketing team. These success stories demonstrate the strength of our programme and the real career opportunities available to those who join us. We currently have five apprentices who are working towards completing their Engine Technician apprenticeships.

“We don’t just train apprentices—we invest in their future today and potential tomorrow. The skills and knowledge they develop are vital to AerFin’s continued growth, and we’re proud to have so many success stories within our team,” added Simon.

Why Apprenticeships Matter to AerFin

The aviation industry is facing a skills shortage, particularly in technical roles. At AerFin, we are committed to addressing this challenge by developing the next generation of aviation professionals.

Our apprenticeships provide structured, hands-on training that matches the standards of industry leaders like British Airways and GE. During their first year, apprentices spend 10 months in college building foundational skills. In the second year, they transition to working on-site four days a week, with one day in college. By the third year, they are fully embedded in the team, working full-time and applying their skills in real-world environments.

“We want to grow our own talent as well as create accessible pathways for individuals from diverse background. That’s why we put so much effort into delivering an apprenticeship programme that ensures people are set up for success.” – Jo Rival, Chief People Officer.

Join the AerFin Apprenticeship Programme

We’re currently on the lookout for our next apprentice! Applications are already coming in, and we’re excited to find the next generation of aviation professionals who will help drive AerFin forward.

If you’re interested in learning from industry experts, gaining hands-on experience, and securing a future in aviation, an apprenticeship with AerFin could be your perfect opportunity. Our apprentices will always be a step ahead with AerFin.

To learn more about our apprenticeship programme and how to apply, visit our careers page.