A Year 13 student, Mati Chmielowiec, has landed an amazing Aircraft Technician Apprenticeship with Boeing.
Mati Chmielowiec
The apprenticeship will see Mati split his time between RAF Brize Norton, where he will complete the hands-on aspects of his training, and a college in Cardiff, where he will work toward the necessary qualifications to maintain and service aircraft.
Mati explained that the apprentice interview process was rigorous, involving several stages: an online questionnaire, a video interview, an assessment day at the RAF base, a second interview and a practical test assembling a mechanical component using printed instructions. He credits his UTC experience, especially workshops and practical sessions, for preparing him well for this stage.
“The hands-on training we did at UTC really helped,” said Mati. “It gave me the foundation I needed to feel confident during the practical assessment.”
When asked what made him stand out during the interviews, Mati said he approached them with a relaxed attitude, treating them as conversations rather than formal interviews. He also highlighted the importance of sharing his interests and experiences outside of school, including his involvement in UTC’s Kit Car Club and his personal interest in mechanical work.
Originally focused on computer science, Mati made the switch to engineering in Year 12 after realising that he was more passionate about practical, hands-on work.
“I was doing computer science mainly for the money you can earn,” he admitted. “But I realised I actually enjoyed engineering much more.”
The apprenticeship will span just over two years and focuses on the C-17 cargo plane, but Mati is already thinking ahead. He hopes to gain experience on other aircraft and eventually progress within Boeing, potentially moving into supervisory roles and even working abroad.
“I’ve already asked what comes next after the apprenticeship. They told me I could become a supervisor after around two years.”
Reflecting on his time at UTC, Mati said: “UTC helped me find what I enjoy. If someone knows they want to go into engineering or computer science, I’d definitely recommend it. It’s focused and gives you the skills you need.”
We wish Mati every success in his apprenticeship and beyond.