Apprentice stories
Viktoryia
Modern Apprentice
Engineering
Viktoryia knew engineering was the role for her as she loved studying woodwork and metalwork at school.
Viktoryia's
journey
Born in Belarus, Viktoryia grew up in Cyprus before settling in Scotland with her parents.
The 22-year-old was introduced to engineering by her dad, who works in the field. Alongside school, Viktoryia went to college in sixth year to study practical skills.
Despite having the grades to go to university, Viktoryia wanted to learn on the job. She applied for an Engineering Modern Apprenticeship at GE Caledonian and is “loving life” 4 years later.
Viktoryia's
apprenticeship
GE Caledonian has supported Viktoryia since day 1 of her Modern Apprenticeship. The aerospace company equipped her with the skills to forge a career in engineering. Viktoryia's apprenticeship has confirmed that she'd like to specialise in aircraft.
During the pandemic, Viktoryia got involved in the Fuel Change Challenge. This is a low-carbon innovation contest for apprentices across Scotland. She led her team to the final with their unique idea to plant seaweed at coastal locations in a bid to reduce CO2.
Aidan McIntyre from GE Caledonian said: “Viktoryia has demonstrated a true interest and passion for climate change. This has happened alongside her apprenticeship.”
How did you get into engineering?
What's being done to attract girls and women into STEM apprenticeships?
What support did you get during your Modern Apprenticeship?
I had all the grades to go to university but didn’t want to. I was keen to learn on the job and gain experience working within the engineering world. To do that, a Modern Apprenticeship was the best way forward.
Viktoryia
Modern Apprentice, Engineering
The future
Viktoryia’s climate change work was recognised at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards. She won the Supporting Net Zero Apprentice category, alongside her colleague.
The former Prestwick Academy pupil now aspires to rise within GE Caledonian. Viktoryia dreams of leading her own team of engineers and being the one who others come to for advice.
Viktoryia also attends STEM events and career fairs to promote apprenticeships. She loves sharing her passion for engineering with the next generation of workers.
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