Procurement and Supply Chain Degree Apprentice

My Route into Airbus

I am currently undertaking a four-year Procurement and Supply Chain degree apprenticeship, which I began in 2023, and am based at Airbus’ Filton site. My work is specifically focused within the Procurement division, where I am gaining essential hands-on experience as I progress toward a full-time buyer role upon the completion of my apprenticeship.

Whilst I was initially encouraged to pursue the more traditional route of a full-time university degree, I found that the conventional university lifestyle did not align with my professional ambitions. I was eager to get a head-start in my career, earn an income, and build invaluable industry connections while simultaneously working towards my degree. Choosing this apprenticeship has allowed me to integrate practical work experience with my academic studies, providing a robust and balanced foundation for my career in the aerospace industry.

The Procurement and Supply Chain Degree Apprenticeship at Airbus

At Airbus, the Procurement apprenticeship is structured around a dynamic rotation system, where a variety of three-to-six month placements are undertaken across the core Procurement functions. This approach also provides ample opportunities to explore wider business areas, such as Programme Management, Supply Chain Logistics, and Quality Management, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of how Procurement integrates into the broader aerospace lifecycle, and promoting the development of a diverse professional network from the beginning of your career.

During each rotation, I have been assigned specific objectives designed to cultivate a robust toolkit of both hard and soft skills. Through participation in active projects such as call-for-tenders and supplier improvement initiatives, I have developed technical expertise in negotiation, contract management, and professional software, whilst simultaneously refining essential soft-skills like teamwork, cultural awareness, and communication.

As I have progressed in the apprenticeship, my responsibilities within each team have been scaled accordingly, all whilst being supported by an extensive mentorship network that encourages personal and professional growth.

What I Enjoy About the Apprenticeship and Working at Airbus

One of the most rewarding aspects of this degree apprenticeship is the seamless synergy between my academic studies and my professional role. I frequently find that the theoretical concepts discussed in university lectures have immediate, practical applications within my daily tasks at Airbus, while my hands-on experiences on-site provide a rich context that deepens my understanding of the curriculum. This dual-learning approach has made my education significantly more impactful, relevant and applicable.

The opportunities for professional exposure and networking at Airbus are unparalleled. Through my role, I have had the chance to travel to various Airbus sites both in the UK and abroad, and to visit some suppliers, gaining a firsthand look at the global aerospace supply chain.

The placement rotation system is particularly beneficial, as it promotes the growth of a broad network of colleagues across different departments. These relationships are not only helpful for my existing scope of work but will be foundational to my long-term career growth within the company.

I also value the level of responsibility I have been entrusted with from an early stage. It is incredibly fulfilling to know that my contributions are valued and that I am playing an active part in the success of my team and the wider organisation. This culture of empowerment is matched by a deeply supportive environment; everyone I have encountered is genuinely invested in the development of early careers (many have been in this position too) and are always willing to offer guidance to help growth.

Entering the aerospace industry has been a profoundly empowering experience, largely due to the inclusive and forward-thinking culture at Airbus. An environment that promotes fair and equal opportunities for everyone is actively fostered, and I have found the company to be very supportive.

Beyond the welcoming environment, this apprenticeship has been instrumental in my personal growth. I have massively developed the confidence to feel valued and heard in any team or situation. Whether contributing to complex procurement projects or engaging with cross-functional stakeholders, I now approach challenges with the assurance that my perspective is both welcomed and respected.

Finally, you have the autonomy to make the apprenticeship unique to your ambitions and personal journey, with numerous avenues for personal and professional enrichment beyond the core role. For example, Airbus sponsors a variety of specialised training opportunities, such as negotiation workshops, which further enhance your professional toolkit. Additionally, I have enjoyed getting involved in extracurricular initiatives, such as supporting STEM outreach activities to inspire the next generation, or representing Airbus at industry events, all of which have contributed to a well-rounded and exciting start to my career.

If You Take Away One Piece of Advice…

Gaining hands-on professional experience and expanding your network are crucial first steps in building a career, and they are difficult to duplicate through a traditional university route alone. If a degree apprenticeship is available in the field you wish to pursue, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take it.