Mica Grainger
Development Operator at Airbus UK
I think having the right mindset is the most important thing. If you're willing to work hard, then it will pay off. Be sure to take advantage of any and every opportunity you're offered, whether that's development within a job role or education/qualifications. Science, maths and English are the most important subjects especially within an engineering role, along with any additional ones you think may benefit you further down the line.
About Mica...
Who am I?
"I think the Developer role best suits me, as I'm working within a Research and Technology programme, which is all about development."
What do I do?
"I'm working as a Development Operator on a research and technology programme within Airbus, which is looking at developing new technologies, ways of working, processes, tools and equipment for potential future aircraft. This role was initially a development opportunity for me and I've been fortunate enough to become a part of a team with many different functions. There is a lot of innovation and efficient thinking within the team. At first it was challenging working in that way, but it was also extremely rewarding. I've become aware of so any different development opportunities within this job role and I'm learning every day."
How did I get here?
"I don't think I ever had an inspiration growing up or even now, I just know that I want to do the best that I can and I've always been driven to work hard. I started my apprenticeship 5 years ago and I never would have dreamed that I would be where I am now, having experienced so much and had so many opportunities. I can relate to being 14/15 and facing the prospect of leaving school and not knowing what I would be doing was terrifying. I had such little self-esteem and I don't remember much of Year 11. I was like a robot, if I didn't have my GCSEs, it was the end of the world. But it's not. I just kept thinking of the bigger picture; once my exams were finished I could start my apprenticeship, once I finished my apprenticeship I would be on a full salary, once I had my full salary I could buy a new car and it went on and on."
The life I live
"In my spare time I like reading, baking, yoga, walking/hiking, making a fuss of my pet rabbit and guinea pig."
My typical day
"The programme has been created to build working components called demoboxes. Currently my job role is putting health and safety regulations in place, gathering the required tools and equipment needed and ensuring that all operators (including myself) have received the correct training ready to begin future production activities.”"
My qualifications
"Secondary education (GCSE/O-Levels) 9 GCSEs Bs-Cs including Maths, English and Science Post secondary education (College, A-levels, NVQ3 or equivalent) Vocational qualification (Diploma, Certificate, BTEC, NQV4 or equivalent) Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (D*D*), Level 3 NVQ Extended Diploma in Aeronautical Engineering (Aircraft Manufacture Mechanical - Pass) Apprenticeship (please specify level in other) Level 3 Apprenticeship in Engineering Manufacture "