At the age of 19, Will embarked on his journey with the MEng (Hons) Aerospace Engineering (Pilot Studies) programme at foundation level.
His passion for aviation and aerospace was sparked at the age of 14 when he became a member of the RAF Air Cadets—a youth organization that provided him with invaluable experiences in flying, gliding, leadership, adventure training, and aerospace exploration. Currently on the cusp of completing the Qualified Aerospace Instructor Course in the Air Cadets, Will has seamlessly integrated his newfound expertise with UCLan tutors to initiate a series of flight training sessions using the Redbird FMX flight simulator—an industry-standard simulator utilized in Private Pilot License (PPL) training.
He is confident that the University’s commitment to fostering employability will pave the way for a more accessible career in aviation, aligning perfectly with his aspirations to become a pilot or engineer.
"Choosing UCLan was a natural decision for me, given Preston's reputation as a hotspot for the aerospace industry and the University's strong connections with key players in the field."
Within just a few months of joining the University, Will was entrusted with using his knowledge and experience to conduct basic flight simulator sessions for fellow foundation year students. Leveraging UCLan's state-of-the-art Cessna-172 motion flight simulator, these sessions serve as a practical introduction to the fundamental aspects of flight controls and the interpretation of flight instruments. The experience has been instrumental in honing Will's abilities and skills and is the reason this initiative has been offered to fellow Foundation students for the first time. This hands-on approach to education not only benefits his peers but also contributes to his own professional development.
Will's journey at UCLan exemplifies the university's commitment to fostering practical skills and employability in the field of aerospace.
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