National awards recognition for an Ayrshire aviation firm

An Ayrshire aviation company is in the running for a national award after clearing apprentices for take-off, turning homegrown talent into world-class engineers whose skills are fuelling growth and safeguarding the sector.

An Ayrshire aviation company is in the running for a national award after clearing apprentices for take-off, turning homegrown talent into world-class engineers whose skills are fuelling growth and safeguarding the sector. 

Ryanair Engineering delivered by Prestwick Aircraft Maintenance Ltd is a finalist in the Large Apprentice Employer of the Year category, sponsored by SSEN Transmission, at this year’s Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in association with SP Energy Networks.  

Developing its own apprentices has helped Ryanair Engineering delivered by Prestwick Aircraft Maintenance Ltd (PAML) cut recruitment costs, improve staff retention and create a supply of Civil Aviation Authority-qualified engineers who meet the highest industry standards. 

Apprentices have propelled expansion for the firm, one of six responsible for the heavy maintenance of Ryanair’s fleet, started with two maintenance bays and now has six bays over two hangars in Prestwick.  

The company’s Performance and Development Officer Caroline Campbell said: “Apprentices are an investment in our growth and long-term success, and they will shape the future of the aviation industry. 

“There’s a global skills shortage for aircraft engineers and an ageing workforce so without qualified engineers, aircraft maintenance simply cannot take place.  

“Apprenticeships are essential for developing a sustainable team that delivers excellence, safety and innovation.” 

The maintenance outfit, which has 752 employees, introduced apprenticeships in 2006 to address the global shortage of aircraft engineers. Since then, 237 apprentices have seen their careers take flight, with a 95% completion rate and a 90% retention rate, both above industry averages. 

Caroline added: “Apprenticeships are not only a phenomenal opportunity to kickstart careers, they’re vital to employers and the Scottish economy.” 

Working in partnership with Ayrshire College and Ryanair Engineering, the company delivers Civil Aviation Authority Aircraft Maintenance modules, providing apprentices with the technical knowledge required to achieve their licence.  

Each apprentice has a personal development plan, a qualified mentor and tailored professional development, including leadership, teamwork, communication and wellbeing. 

Sustainability is embedded in apprenticeships with training in low-carbon maintenance practices, energy efficiency and waste reduction. A Green Representative is appointed from each cohort to lead environmental projects.  

Caroline said: “The projects deliver amazing results, as young minds bring fresh perspectives. We've introduced recyclable cleaning rags, motion-sensor lighting, draught-proofing on doors and windows and an in-house QR code stand made from scrap metal, replacing printed flyers to reduce cost and environmental impact. 

“Apprentices are our future management so it’s crucial to embed sustainability from the start.” 

The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards in association with SP Energy Networks, celebrates apprentices, employers and learning providers from across the country and a wide range of sectors. 

Award categories recognise the achievements of Foundation, Modern and Graduate Apprentices, as well as the organisations who champion and support apprenticeships.

The awards, organised by Skills Development Scotland, will be held at a ceremony taking place in Glasgow on 26 February, when category winners will be announced before the overall winner is named Scotland’s Apprentice of the Year.

Minister for Higher and Further Education, Ben Macpherson said: “Scottish Apprenticeships are excellent opportunities for young people, offering sustainable and rewarding employment.  

“Congratulations to all Scottish Apprenticeship Awards finalists – career journeys that are fantastic examples of the positive impact apprenticeships have on people, business and society.”

The Scottish Apprenticeship Awards will help to launch Scottish Apprenticeship Week from 2 to 6 March. For more information about the awards and apprenticeships, visit apprenticeships.scot.