Hi Mike.

Thanks for your question.

I first got interested in being a pilot in my early teenage years and joined the air cadets and had a flying scholarship at 17 leading to me getting a PPL. When my flying career stalled for various reasons I trained as a paediatric and neonatal nurse. 

Many people think this is a huge change in direction but I learned so many transferable skills such as communication, team work and leadership, workload management and decision making. I still had the ambition to become a pilot but I learned a lot during my nursing years and think these skills have helped me become a better pilot.

I personally believe some experience outside of aviation is valuable and people can bring great insight and new skills into the profession.

I hope this answers your question.

Kate

10 April, 2026 13:55