Air traffic control hosts annual ‘Bring Your Daughter to Work Day’

Following reports that only 11% of the UK’s engineering and technology workforce are women*, NATS opened its doors to a potential next generation of female engineers last week.

Around 40 students, aged between 13-18, had the chance to meet air traffic control engineers and enjoy a day of interactive talks, tours and activities aimed at helping them discover more about a possible career in engineering.

The event, held on July 26, was part of NATS’ Early Careers recruitment scheme, that aims to inspire the next generation of female engineers and technicians by raising awareness of STEM-related career paths in the aviation industry.

NATS engineers act as a focal point for air traffic control, working 24/7 to deliver and maintain operational systems and equipment. Their day job ranges from designing air traffic control technology to maintaining the UKs network of radar stations.

Employees from two of NATS sites (Whiteley and Swanwick) were able to invite either a daughter, female family member or friend to work for the day and many took advantage of the event to do just this.

Katie Foster, Head of People Services for NATS, said:  “After the great success of this event last year we were really excited to do it again. It’s important for young girls and women to feel confident taking up a career in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related industries – and this event is our way of helping them do that.

“By inspiring and engaging with them from a young age, we hope NATS can encourage them to think more about their career options and the opportunities available to them.”

NATS believe increasing diversity in engineering is vital for several reasons, not least to expand the pool of engineering talent, but also because the aviation industry has some truly ground-breaking developments on the horizon.

Katie said: “Growing our talent pipeline is hugely important to our future success, so we hope the day gave them an insight into what a future career in STEM can offer and particularly the fantastic opportunities that exist within NATS.”

NATS’ Prestwick centre will be hosting their own Bring Your Daughter to Work Day on October 10.

*2017 study by the Women in Engineering Society. The full report can be read here.

Pictured: Some of the girls being shown around NATS’ corporate and technical centre.