On International Women in Engineering Day, we celebrate Senior Aircraftman Laura Muir who was commended as the RAF Apprentice of the Year for Survival Equipment Fitters.
22 year old Laura, originally from Freuchie in Fife, successfully completed the Level 3 Survival Equipment Fitter Apprentice with the Royal Air Force and was commended as the Apprentice of the Year for her outstanding work. She was supposed to be presented with her award earlier in the year but the ceremony was unfortunately cancelled owing to the coronavirus pandemic. Instead, RAF Benson are celebrating her achievements on International Women in Engineering Day to help inspire future generations to consider the wide-ranging opportunities that exist across the Royal Air Force.
Laura joined the RAF in 2016 as a Survival Equipment Technician as she wanted to see the world and challenge herself. Keen to progress quickly, she joined the apprenticeship scheme offered by the RAF and was soon on the pathway to success. She’s also keen to help others see that university isn’t the only path to a successful career in an engineering environment. She explains:
“I’d recommend anyone considering an apprenticeship does some research of all the different trades to see the range of careers the RAF offers. It’s important for people to be educated on their options when they leave school. The best thing about my apprenticeship was completing it on a fast-paced operational squadron while enjoying the benefits and lifestyle that the RAF has to offer.”
Keen on fitness, Laura makes use of the state-of-the-art fitness facilities and, since joining RAF Benson in 2018 she has trained weekly with the Boxing Club. She currently works to support the RAF Puma Force, ensuring that all survival equipment for personnel and aircraft is serviceable and ready for operational deployments and essential training. She has most recently deployed to Scotland in support of the Ministry of Defence’s helicopter contribution to the COVID Support Force.
“I’m really proud to lead an engineering team that benefits from the diversity we enjoy. Laura is a fantastic example of an individual who is excelling in their chosen career, making the most of every opportunity that presents itself to achieve excellence. We’re very lucky to have her as part of the team here at RAF Benson; she provides a superb example at any time, but it is particularly fitting to celebrate her success and contribution on International Women in Engineering Day.
Wing Commander Elizabeth Gilbertson - Officer Commanding Engineering and Logistics Wing and Chief Air Engineer at RAF Benson”
