- aviation professionals called upon to inspire the next generation of talent across and help futureproof the sector
- applications are now open for the Department for Transport’s next cohort of volunteer aviation ambassadors
- scheme encourages people from diverse backgrounds to pursue a career in aviation, boosting access to opportunity as part of the Plan for Change
More people across the UK will be inspired to pursue exciting careers in aviation as the government launches applications for the next cohort of aviation ambassadors today (22 September 2025).
Recruited by the Department for Transport (DfT), the ambassadors promote aviation as an exciting and accessible career alongside undertaking their professional roles in the sector.
Like many industries, the aviation sector faces challenges in recruiting and retaining a talented workforce – the ambassadors meet this challenge head-on by seeking to inspire the next generation into a varied and fulfilling career.
From ground handling and airfield safety to flight operations, customer service and emerging green technologies, the scheme raises awareness of the many career paths available to suit every skillset and every passion.
The ambassadors deliver a range of outreach activities, including giving talks in colleges, supporting industry events, and promoting aviation careers through online platforms and traditional media. This engagement has reached thousands of people who may never have considered aviation as a career option, including those in underrepresented communities.
The initiative is part of the Generation Aviation programme, which sees government and industry working together to help build an aviation workforce fit for the future and attract diverse, talented people.
Aviation Minister, Keir Mather, said:
The UK has a proud history in aviation, which we are determined to continue by inspiring more young people to see the sector as a place where they can build their careers.
Our aviation ambassadors play a vital role in that mission – helping to break down barriers, share their experiences and encourage the next generation to aim high.
This is about securing the future of aviation and ensuring that our young people have their eyes open to highly skilled jobs and future opportunities that will deliver the Plan for Change.
Among the current ambassadors are:
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Hannah Wells, who volunteers alongside her career as an EasyJet First Officer, regularly visits schools, attends careers fairs, and speaks at open evenings
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Mike Glen, Head of Airspace and Noise at AGS Airports, who champions aerospace as a sector commander in the Royal Air Force Air Cadets
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Alice Goodwin, an avionics design and development engineer who mentors young people at four aviation charities
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Jack Jenner-Hall, an aerobatics competitor who earned national attention by becoming the UK’s youngest pilot after qualifying as a glider pilot at just 14
Alice Goodwin, current Aviation Ambassador and Engineer with Virgin Atlantic, said:
It wasn’t until I met a pilot at a school careers fair that aviation came onto my radar, and I’ve since worked my way up through the ranks at Virgin Atlantic over the last eight years.
I currently lead a team of technical specialists in my day-to-day work, but I believe it is my responsibility as an engineer to continue encouraging our next generation, especially those from underrepresented communities.
