If you’ve ever wanted to be part of an operation built on the latest technology and world-class products, the world of cargo offers a breadth of opportunity. Be it handling Formula 1 race cars or exotic animals on the ground, making sure life-saving vaccines reach their destination in a race against time or crunching numbers in our London headquarters. No two days at IAG Cargo are ever the same.
In an increasingly competitive working world where many people leave school or university not knowing how to kickstart their future, our apprenticeships are a fantastic option for learning practical skills for the workplace, gaining access to progression opportunities and earning money whilst studying. Not only do our apprentices learn from our experienced colleagues, they also bring new ideas and enthusiasm to the team.
Our dedicated programs span finance, operations, data analysis, business administration and more, and many of our applicants have gone on to work in a variety of exciting roles across the business.
To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2020 (3-7 Feb, 2020), we chat to three of our own – Fizan in Innovation (L) and Olivia in Data & Analytics (R) – to hear more about their experiences at IAG Cargo.
What made you apply for an apprenticeship at IAG Cargo?
Fizan: At school, I studied science, tech and IT subjects at GCSE, and focused on business, philosophy and mathematics at A-level. The prospect of working on ground-breaking tech projects that could make a big difference was what really drew me to the role, but also the broader vision of IAG Cargo and what the company stands for. Whether that is transporting wildlife to safe environments or shipping medicine across the world, it is an opportunity to contribute to positive change.
Olivia: I really wanted to work for IAG Cargo after completing a week of work experience in the Business Insights team whilst I was in college. The team was really friendly and welcoming, I learned a lot about the world of working and it gave me a taste for more! The career fairs at Heathrow gave me a lot of inspiration to consider both working and learning (the added benefit of no university fees didn’t hurt either!).
What does a day in the life look like?
Fizan: Day-to-day I get up early for morning mindfulness. Every day is a new challenge and I always enjoy coming in to work with the team. My day includes everything from speaking to different people from all parts of the business to meetings and playing with the latest tech in the innovation space. My day always ends with a smile knowing that I’m ready for the next challenge and that I have made a difference!
Olivia: As a data analyst apprentice I get to collaborate on a lot of projects across the business which gives me a “behind the scenes” perspective. It’s been interesting applying data to business cases, and I’m currently working on the testing side of the Product team to solve problems with Airmail that couldn’t be seen otherwise. I also get the chance to meet a lot of people as I learn how IAG Cargo operates.
What has been the most rewarding part of your experience so far?
Fizan: The most rewarding part of my experience so far has been the opportunities the scheme has presented to me. I am always given a platform to grow, develop and challenge ideas in order to create positive impact. At the same time, I am always supported by my team, and encouraged to be creative and challenged every day.
Olivia: The most rewarding part is seeing the impact of your work – even a simple report can be used by analysts across the business! I am also studying for a data science exam this month which has been great for looking at how to upskill further after the apprenticeship has finished.
We welcome applicants from all walks of life for our IAG Cargo apprenticeships. If you are looking to kickstart a new career in the world of cargo, then please fill out an online application at https://careers.ba.com/apprentices.