#InspireTheNextGen
On Saturday 20th July 2024, I spent the day at the stand with the Air League inspiring the next generation of aviators.
As the UK’s leading aviation and aerospace charity, the Air League is on a mission to increase social mobility and make aviation accessible to all. As someone who is equally on a mission to inspire the next generation of aviators – I thought what better way than volunteering with the Air league at the Royal International Air Tattoo this year.
At RAF Fairford, our stand was set up at the ‘Techno Zone’ – the heart of RIAT. The Techno Zone is designed to bring together technology, innovation and education across aviation and STEM into one room to inspire young individuals – whether they’re seasoned enthusiasts, curious or new to the world of aviation and aerospace. It also offers hands-on experience into the latest, cutting-edge advancements across the industry. From robotic demos, virtual reality to activities there is something for everyone!
How the day went…
The day started really early. I arrived at RAF Fairford at 7am in order to go collect passes and go through security checks. The stand was already set up from the day prior… all that was left to do was to meet my fellow volunteers. After an early morning introduction by The Air League and what to expect for the day I was ready to rock n’ roll!
I did lots of pre-reading so I was quite comfortable talking about The Air League and what they have to offer. It was also a great opportunity to discuss the great work the Air League are doing to break social barriers and improve accessibility across aviation and engineering through the outreach programmes and scholarships. I also talked about my own experience having received a 5 hours flying scholarship!
Throughout the day, I aimed to inspire young people about careers in aerospace and aviation – it was refreshing to listen to like-minded, passionate individuals as well as those who are curious about aerospace. The sheer excitement and joy in the face of young individuals was the days highlight for me. For many they were discovering aviation for the very first time! It reminded me of the enthusiasm that ran in my veins of my younger self discovering this wonderful world we call aviation. It definitely made the early rise worthwhile!
I invited young people aged 6+ to build and draw their BEST aircrafts. The best ones were later judged by us and awarded a secret prize! And I must say we have some excellent entries! Plus everyone who visited the stand was given a mandatory Air League sticker #you’reoneofusnow!
A very messy table! We had so many people come to our stand, it was amazing! I really enjoyed the day having spoken to so many individuals. I recall speaking to one lady in her 70s about her passion around skydiving – even though the rest of her family thinks she’s quote in quote ‘crazy’ – but she is adamant she’ll continue to skydive as long as she can and inspire her grandchildren to…. rightly so! And to top it off her grandchild said she’s the best grandma ever! That really made my day!
Towards the end of the day, I had the great opportunity to go outside and see lots of static and flying displays. I saw the Typhoon FGR4 from No 12 squadron at the static display. Did you know it’s top speed is 1,324 mph! There were lots of other great static displays as well as flying. I also managed to capture the amazing red arrows! That was a special moment!
I am confident many young people walked away with a whole new perspective of the various career opportunities that are open to them across aviation and aerospace as well as the opportunities the Air League offers to break social barriers! Overall, it was a fantastic day surrounding with some amazing people from all over the industry as well as the young people who came to our stand.
I thank The Air League for a great day out. It was great meeting some of the other volunteers and talking about everything aviation and our ambitions – whether it be engineering or flying!
Here are some clicks of the day….
