Robert, the Chief Executive Officer of London City Airport, visited our aviation learners for an engaging masterclass.
Situated at the Royal Docks, directly across from the college, the sound and sight of planes departing from London City Airport serve as a constant source of motivation for our aviation learners, fuelling their vocational ambitions.
Robert began the masterclass by recounting his journey in the aviation industry. His passion for aviation led him to pursue a career as a pilot, but his dream ended at 16 due to then requirements to have 20/20 vision. He instead went onto study law and become a chartered accountant. With this valuable skillset, he later re-entered the aviation industry as the Chief Finance Officer at Auckland Airport, followed by a successful tenure as CEO of Bristol Airport, marked by record passenger volume increases. Today, he heads London City Airport.
During the session, Robert elaborated on his job role, providing an overview of his day-to-day responsibilities and the challenges he encounters as CEO. He also discussed the current state of the aviation industry and the significant changes it has undergone over the past fifteen years."
The session's highlight was an engaging Q&A, offering our learners a unique opportunity to interact with an industry expert. Robert's experience offered valuable insights, fuelling their passion for aviation careers.
‘Hearing Robert talk reiterated the saying ‘winners never quit, and quitters never win’. When he found out he couldn't be a pilot, he still strived to be in the industry and he has now been CEO of two airports,’ Gabriel, year 12 aviation learner.
‘Roberts visit today was truly inspiring, it allowed us to see what really goes behind all the operations, there is much more to just pilots in aviation,’ Haram, year 12 aviation learner.