Josh's success story: Securing an internship at British Airways

Josh is an Aerospace Engineering student from the University of Bristol. He secured a Base Maintenance Engineering internship at British Airways, through Bright Network.  

First, please tell us a little bit about yourself.  

“I chose to study Aerospace Engineering because of my passion for aviation and the problem-solving opportunities the industry offers.  

Throughout my education, I've always enjoyed maths and physics, so engineering felt like the perfect path to pursue.  

My passion for aviation began at a young age. I spent countless hours playing on flight simulators and I grew up under a flight path near London Gatwick so was always fascinated by seeing aircraft overhead. Those experiences sparked a lasting interest in aviation and made me realise I wanted to build a career within the industry.”  

What element are you most looking forward to in your role?  

“I’ll be supporting one of the technical teams responsible for helping ensure the aircraft remain airworthy and safe to operate, which involves helping to identify and resolve defects before they develop into larger issues that could impact operations.  

Through my Aerospace Engineering degree, I’ve learnt a lot about aircraft design, aerodynamics and the principles that enable aircraft to fly. Engineering within an airline environment is quite different so I’m particularly interested in learning more about what goes into maintaining aircraft to a high standard.  

I’m most looking forward to seeing first-hand how engineering supports airline operations behind the scenes. As passengers, we often see a small part of the aviation industry, so being able to understand the work that goes into keeping aircraft flying safely is a unique opportunity.”  

What stood out to you about British Airways?  

“The people and culture at British Airways really stood out. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, friendly and willing to go out of their way to support and encourage others, especially in situations that might feel challenging or unfamiliar.  

From my very first week, I experienced this positive culture firsthand – the kindness, encouragement and genuine willingness of colleagues created an environment where I felt valued, included and empowered, which is something I’m extremely grateful for and a quality that sets British Airways apart.”  

What does working for British Airways mean to you?  

“Working for British Airways has meant a great deal to me and I’m incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to experience what it's like to work in the aviation industry.  

What makes the experience so special is that it combines my passion for aviation with the opportunity to learn in a professional environment. Every day I come into work excited and motivated because I know I'll be surrounded by something I've been fascinated by for most of my life.”  

What was the application process like to join British Airways?  

“The application process was very straightforward and the recruitment team made me feel supported every step of the way. Whenever there was uncertainty, they provided clear guidance and expectations, which I felt reflected the company's values and commitment to its candidates. 

One aspect I particularly appreciated was the opportunity to receive feedback, regardless of whether an applicant was successful or not. In today's competitive job market, where securing an internship or placement can be challenging, receiving constructive feedback is incredibly valuable.  

Overall, the process was transparent, professional and a great learning experience.”  

How did Bright Network help you secure this role?  

“Bright Network helped me secure this role by connecting me with opportunities that matched my interests and career goals. The platform made it easy to discover the British Airways internship, and the resources available helped me feel more confident throughout the application process, particularly the success stories from British Airways graduates.  

Since joining, I've even had the opportunity to meet and network with some of those graduates myself, which has been a surreal and rewarding experience. It really shows how opportunities found through Bright Network can lead to meaningful professional connections and career development!”  

What would you say to someone who’s unsure about applying?  

“I’d encourage you to just go for it! There are so many different departments and career paths across the business, so there will be opportunities you might not even have considered.  

Many people build long-term careers at British Airways and it's not uncommon for colleagues to move into completely different roles as their interests and career goals evolve.  

The ability to explore new areas while staying within the company is something that really stood out to me, so even if you're not sure the role is a perfect fit, don't rule yourself out. Be open-minded, apply and see where the journey takes you. You might discover opportunities and career paths that you never knew existed!”

Finally, what three tips would you give to Bright Network members looking to follow in your footsteps?  

1. "Be an original – be yourself and embrace the unique qualities, experiences and perspectives you bring. British Airways values individuals who can contribute fresh ideas and different ways of thinking, so don't be afraid to let your personality shine throughout the application process and beyond. 

2. Say yes to opportunities – whether it’s attending an event, taking on a project or networking with professionals, always look for ways to get involved. These experiences can help you discover strengths you didn’t know you had, develop new skills and uncover interests that may shape your future career.  

3. Be curious – aviation is a rapidly evolving industry, with new technologies, challenges and opportunities emerging all the time. Being curious allows you to stay adaptable, continuously learn and make the most of new experiences. Don't be afraid to ask questions, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace challenges, as that's often where the greatest personal and professional growth happens. "