## easyJet Takes Flight to Empower Young Women in Engineering
In a bold move to celebrate National Engineering Day, easyJet has teamed up with award-winning social enterprise Stemettes to ignite a passion for engineering in young women. This partnership comes at a crucial time, as statistics reveal a concerning gender gap in the field, with women representing only 15% of engineering apprentices in England.
Breaking Barriers and Building Dreams
easyJet is committed to tackling this imbalance head-on. Through a multifaceted approach, the airline is determined to make engineering a more inclusive and accessible career path for young women. This includes:
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School and College Visits:
Engaging directly with students, showcasing the exciting world of engineering and highlighting the diverse roles within the aviation industry.*
Mentorship Programs:
Providing opportunities for young women to connect with female role models in engineering, offering guidance and inspiration.*
The easyJet Aeronautical Engineering Apprenticeship Programme:
This two-year, fully funded program offers aspiring engineers a comprehensive learning experience. Apprentices receive classroom training, hands-on experience, a competitive salary, and other benefits, setting them up for a successful career in aviation.Showcasing Success and Inspiring Future Generations
To further drive home the message of inclusivity, easyJet is featuring inspiring stories of female engineers within its ranks. Bola, a member of the Stemettes Youth Board, has created an exclusive behind-the-scenes video showcasing easyJet’s aircraft maintenance operations at London Luton Airport. The video also features Cara Fabre-Simmonds, a Production Planner at easyJet, who shares her inspiring career journey and advice for young women interested in engineering.
Katie Edney, a former easyJet engineering apprentice who now works as a licensed mechanic, passionately advocates for the profession: “easyJet has been amazing in giving me a fantastic start to my career as a professional engineer. It’s a challenging and rewarding career, and I’d encourage other women to consider aviation to break traditional stereotypes.”
A Collaborative Effort for a Brighter Future
Dr. Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, CEO of Stemettes, underscores the importance of this partnership: “Engineering is everywhere, and we’re passionate about helping young people make informed decisions about their futures. With so many options available, an apprenticeship is a fantastic way to launch a career in this exciting field.”
Beyond Inspiring Women
easyJet’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond empowering women. The airline recently launched a campaign to recruit military veterans for engineering roles, partnering with SAS hero Andy McNab and weServed, a platform dedicated to supporting veterans’ transition into civilian careers. This comprehensive program provides veterans with the necessary training and experience to succeed in the aviation industry.
By actively seeking to diversify its workforce, easyJet is leading the way in creating a more inclusive and innovative future for engineering. This partnership with Stemettes is a powerful testament to the airline’s dedication to empowering young women and fostering a more equitable environment in the world of engineering.
