Overview: A generous grant to boost women in aviation
A government grant close to £100,000 is set to transform opportunities for young women in Cornwall who dream of careers in aviation, aerospace, and engineering. The funding supports TECwomen CIC’s TECgirls Reach for the Sky project, an initiative designed to inspire and equip girls and young women with the knowledge, confidence, and hands-on experience needed to pursue technical paths in aviation.
What TECgirls Reach for the Sky aims to achieve
The project focuses on removing barriers that can deter girls from pursuing STEM and aviation-related careers. By providing role models, practical workshops, and paid work experience, TECgirls Reach for the Sky seeks to widen access to training, apprenticeships, and university courses in fields such as aircraft maintenance, aerospace engineering, avionics, and air traffic management. The end goal is not just to spark initial interest but to nurture long-term ambition that leads to meaningful, well-paying jobs in Cornwall’s growing aviation sector.
Why Cornwall needs more women in aviation
The aviation industry faces a skills gap, and Cornwall, with its engineering heritage and growing aerospace clusters, is well placed to benefit from a more diverse workforce. Encouraging young women to enter aviation careers supports regional economic resilience, fosters innovation, and helps local employers recruit from a broader talent pool. The grant will enable TECwomen to tailor programs to meet local needs, from schools outreach to hands-on experiences in maintenance hangars and simulation labs.
Key activities funded by the grant
- In-school assemblies and after-school clubs that introduce aviation concepts in engaging ways.
- Mentoring and role-model talks featuring women working in aviation, aerospace, and engineering roles.
- Hands-on workshops on topics such as aircraft maintenance, drone technology, and basic flight simulations.
- Work experience placements with local aviation and engineering employers to build resume-ready skills.
- Support for family and community outreach to broaden interest beyond classrooms and into local communities.
What success looks like for TECgirls Reach for the Sky
While the initiative is rooted in Cornwall, its outcomes could set a blueprint for rural and coastal regions facing similar recruitment challenges. Success metrics include the number of participants who pursue STEM qualifications, internships, or apprenticeships, as well as qualitative feedback on confidence and perceived belonging in aviation environments. The program also prioritizes inclusive delivery, ensuring access for girls from diverse backgrounds and with varying levels of prior exposure to aviation.
Broader impact: inspiring the next generation
Beyond immediate employment outcomes, the grant aims to shift cultural perceptions about women in aviation. When girls see relatable female mentors and can participate in real-world projects, stereotypes begin to fade, and interest grows into conviction. This cultural shift complements policy measures and industry initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in STEM and technical fields.
What communities and families can expect
Parents, teachers, and community leaders can expect increased access to informative sessions, campus visits, and open days. By demystifying aviation careers and providing a clear pathway from education to employment, TECgirls Reach for the Sky helps families support young women in pursuing ambitious vocational goals. Local employers benefit from a more diverse, well-trained pipeline of future technicians, engineers, and aviation professionals.
Next steps and how to participate
Interested schools, organisations, and young women should look out for registration details and schedules released by TECwomen CIC. Participation is designed to be flexible, accommodating different school calendars and personal commitments, while ensuring high-quality exposure to aviation opportunities. The project also welcomes collaboration with community groups and industry partners to extend its reach and impact.
