Five young firefighters from Northern Ireland have passed a significant milestone in Belfast City Airport’s ‘High Flyers’ Apprenticeship programme to secure full-time employment within the Airport’s fire service.
The class, which was Belfast City Airport’s largest firefighting apprentice intake to date, excelled through the training courses which included hose running, pump operations, water rescue, boat handling, and ladder rescue.
At a graduation ceremony attended by family and friends, Owen Brown, Jessica McCormick, Matthew Johnston, Tom Crozier, and Jordan McIntyre demonstrated their new skills with live demonstrations before officially passing through to join a watch as full time firefighters.
Jessica Brown, from Newtownards, commented:
“The High Flyers programme has provided me with an invaluable opportunity to develop a lifelong career and really unique experiences.
“To gain employment at a reputable company like Belfast City Airport is the icing on the cake, and I can’t wait to get stuck into a full-time role.”
Belfast City Airport’s Fire and Rescue Service now consists of a team of 35 individuals, who work to maintain and enhance the Airport’s extremely rigorous safety measures in addition to providing First Aid to those across the Airport site when required.
Jordan McIntyre, from East Belfast, added:
“Being afforded the opportunity to undergo training as an aviation firefighter is a privilege, and I am truly grateful to the team for the challenge, training, and warm welcome that was extended to me and the other apprentices.”
Now in its 10th year, Belfast City Airport’s High Flyers programme has had a 100% success rate in graduating young people across Northern Ireland from apprentices to full time employment.
Reflecting on the programme and the latest intake of apprentices, Seamus MacMahon, Chief Fire Officer at Belfast City Airport, said:
“Our latest five apprentices beat off stuff competition to secure their apprenticeships, showcasing the level of talent and ability that we are fortunate enough to have on our team.
“Owen, Jessica, Matthew, Tom, and Jordan have all worked extremely hard throughout their apprenticeships, demonstrating commitment, dedication, and determination to honing their skills and knowledge.
“Nurturing and empowering young people aligns with our core values at Belfast City Airport, and it is fantastic that we are able to share our expertise with the next generation, creating viable and long-term career opportunities for people across Northern Ireland.”
For more information about Belfast City Airport’s High Flyers programme, visit belfastcityairport.com