BAE Systems apprentice Kai Burkitt has been named winner of the Composites UK Trainee/Apprentice of the Year Award.
Twenty-one year old Kai, from Stockport, Manchester, impressed the judges with his knowledge and enthusiasm and the fact that he had not missed a single day of his apprenticeship training.
Based at BAE’s training centre in Preston, Kai has undertaken various placements in manufacturing engineering. Placed in the Manufacturing, Development Technology Department, which fuelled his interest in composite technology, he had the opportunity to learn and experience first hand various prototype projects, one of which was the Demon project, which contributed towards flapless air vehicle integrated industry research (FLAVIR). Kai was responsible for planning, control, problem solving and developing all of the composites related to the programme. His final placement in a composite manufacturing environment resulted in him being offered a full time position as an Advanced Manufacturing Engineer.
His line leader Neil Robinson said: “Over the time Kai has spent working in the department, it became apparent quite quickly that he could be relied upon to deliver quality work with minimum supervision. The team values his fresh approach as a shining example to his peers and work colleagues alike.”
“I feel valued to have won such an award, even more so as it’s from Composite UK who recognised my enthusiasm for the job”, added Kai.
Kai’s career choice was by his grandfather, who also worked for BAE Systems.
