Unlocking Aviation Dreams: How £100K Grants Are Empowering Young Women in Cornwall to Soar in Aerospace Careers

A groundbreaking initiative in Cornwall is set to transform the aviation and aerospace landscape by empowering young women with new career opportunities. The government has awarded a significant grant of nearly £100,000 to TECwomen CIC, a project dedicated to inspiring girls and young women to pursue careers in aviation, aerospace, and engineering.

Expanding Opportunities with TECgirls Reach for the Sky Festival

This funding will support the delivery of the TECgirls Reach for the Sky festival and the Take Flight education programme, both designed to engage and motivate young women across rural and coastal areas. Caitlin Gould, Director of TECwomen CIC, emphasized the impact: "Our Take Flight programme has been building year on year, and with this support, we will continue to grow our reach and inspire more young women."

Additional Grants for Inclusive Aviation Pathways

Two other projects in Cornwall have also received funding from the government's £750,000 Reach for the Sky Challenge Fund:

• Aerobility was granted £60,589 to create pathways into aviation and aerospace for disabled individuals.
• The Jon Egging Trust received £40,122 for its aviation and aerospace careers roadshows, aimed at broadening access to these fields.

Addressing the Demand for Gender-Specific Support

Gould highlighted the urgent need for such initiatives: "Young women are crying out for opportunities, especially programmes designed specifically to support them and help them thrive." This sentiment underscores the growing demand for targeted career development resources in STEM sectors.

Government Commitment to Aviation Growth and Inclusion

The government has identified aviation as a rapidly growing sector, driven by expansion plans at Gatwick and Luton airports and the push for a third runway at Heathrow. Keir Mather, Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister, stated: "This fund is helping to break down barriers to opportunity and encouraging the next generation to aim high. It's about ensuring young people from all backgrounds can see and learn about the varied and often highly skilled jobs and future opportunities."

Impact on Future Workforce Development

These grants are not just about funding; they represent a strategic investment in diversifying the aviation workforce and fostering innovation. By targeting underrepresented groups, such as young women and disabled individuals, these programmes aim to build a more inclusive and dynamic industry for the future.