Oliver Birdsall

What do you do now?

I’m studying Aeronautical Engineering at De Montfort University. On the completion of my degree I hope to become a helicopter pilot for either the military or a civilian company.

I studied Double Engineering, Core Maths and Physics at Sixth Form. I also completed an EPQ on how navies use aviation and studied for a course to become an aerospace engineer in the Air Cadets. All the work was very difficult but it taught me a lot abot self-discipline and hard work. I learned a lot about what interested me most in aviation and this shaped my career path.

What advice would you give your 17-year-old self?

Work hard and aim high. Don’t worry about setbacks because they can lead to something better in the end.

What are you most proud of?

Becoming a Qualified Aerospace Instructor within the Air Cadets. I’m also proud of seeing cadets develop their knowledge and get a real interest and enjoyment from the lessons I taught.