Airbus prides itself on the calibre of its undergraduate apprentices, many of whom go on to achieve great success within the company and within engineering.
Colleagues in our Filton headquarters are especially proud of Design Engineer Dave McDermott, one of the youngest people ever to be awarded IEng status. Although he’s just 21 years old, he’s proof of what can be achieved via an Airbus apprenticeship
Dave has been the youngest in his year since joining the Airbus undergraduate apprenticeship scheme in September 2012.
Born and raised in Lossiemouth, Scotland, his birthday is in December. Because of Scotland’s different cut-off rules, this means he started school well before his fifth birthday and, consequently, started his apprenticeship at the age of 17.
Dave originally planned to join the RAF but has never regretted taking up the undergraduate apprenticeship role with Airbus.
“I’ve always been more interested in the practical, problem-solving side of engineering and the course gave me the opportunity to develop my professional skills while working towards the degree,” said Dave.
“Whenever I attend careers events I tell the young people that an undergraduate apprenticeship with Airbus should be their first choice! It’s hard work but worth it.”
Dave now works as a computer aided design engineer on one of the Airbus aircraft programmes. He enjoys the short timescales of the work, solving problems raised by the airlines and maintenance operators.
Filton Early Careers Manager Tony Rooke said: “Dave is an outstanding member of the team, demonstrating the professionalism, commitment and skill that makes Airbus engineers the best.
“We’re all incredibly proud of Dave and his achievements, and I’ve no doubt this is the beginning of a hugely successful and influential career for him.”
IEng (Incorporated Engineer) status is awarded by the Engineering Council to applicants who have demonstrated competencies in a number of challenging areas. To qualify, Dave, first had to be approved by the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS).