A new step into aviation for Futurequals as Pena completes the first ever Air Traffic Controller apprenticeship

Pena Mason has become the first Air Traffic Controller (ATC) to pass her apprenticeship End-Point Assessment.

Pena became the UK’s first ever ATC apprentice in July 2023.

Pena’s ‘trail blazing’ training provider has been Global Aviation Training Services (ATS).

Andy Cameron, Academy Director for Global ATS, said:

“We’re very grateful to Chris Young and the team at FutureQuals – it was fantastic to have a confirmed EPAO involved from the outset. Chris’s passion for aviation was clear from the beginning and FutureQuals’ experience within pre-hospital care EPA gave us confidence that we could fulfil the terms of the apprenticeship.

“An ATC apprenticeship will develop your professional and personal skills in areas such as problem solving, teamwork and communication. The skills, knowledge and behaviours learnt are incredibly valuable.”

Pena Mason, who was presented with her apprenticeship certificate this week, said:

“The ATC Level 5 Apprenticeship Scheme provides me the access to education and opportunities for personal development as well as extending my knowledge allowing me to pursue my dream of becoming an Air Traffic Controller.

“As the first UK ATC Apprentice, the entire apprenticeship assessment process was brand new and unfamiliar to me, but FutureQuals were extremely supportive throughout my End Point Assessment process, which was a great help to me.”

Elizabeth Pincombe-Stringer, Head of End Point Assessment Operations for FutureQuals, said:

“We want to offer Pena our congratulations and best wishes for her career. We’re hearing from both employers and training providers that the apprenticeship pathway is helping to shape more rounded Air Traffic Controllers, and this is certainly true for her.

“It’s an exciting time for FutureQuals too, with the first cohort of Aviation Flight Operations Coordinators beginning their apprenticeships. We’re also authorised to assess First Officer Pilots and Transport Schedulers, so we’re thrilled to be witnessing the effects this training route is having on the aviation industry as a whole.”

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