18th March 2026
News
Breaking Barriers in Aviation: Orla Donnellan’s Journey Through the AAG Apprenticeship Programme
When Orla Donnellan started her apprenticeship with Atlantic Aviation Group in September 2024, she was diving into a field she’d just discovered, but it felt like the perfect fit from day one. Now in her second year, working through the hands-on Phase 3A of her training, she’s quickly becoming a standout in the hangar and a role model for young women considering careers in aviation.
One thing that Orla knew early on that she wanted to pursue an apprenticeship – something practical, purposeful, and hands-on. “I always knew I wanted to do an apprenticeship,” she explains. “I saw an advert for the aircraft maintenance engineering apprenticeship and did a bit of research into what the job entailed, and I thought it sounded cool!” Social media gave her the final nudge. She came across an Instagram post featuring Kayla Tuohy, a fellow female apprentice at AAG, and it sparked a surge of confidence. “Seeing another girl doing it gave me the courage to apply,” she recalls.
Once in the programme, the training exceeded her expectations. Her time with the LCETB provided a strong foundation for her learning. “The instructors were so knowledgeable and very helpful,” Orla says. Returning to the hangar floor brought its own kind of growth. “Being back on the hangar floor, I’ve put the theory I learnt into practice, and working alongside qualified engineers you learn so much.”
What surprised Orla was how comfortable she quickly became as a woman in the apprenticeship programme. While she admits feeling a little self-conscious at first — “I felt a little like the odd one out in amongst a class full of boys” – but that feeling didn’t last long. “I soon realised that was all in my own head. The lads treat me the very same as each other. I must say I’m very lucky that they really look out for me!”
That doesn’t mean the journey has been without challenges. Physical strength, she admits, can occasionally be an obstacle. Tasks like removing stubborn screws or heavy panels require resourcefulness. But for Orla, that creativity has become part of her engineering identity. “It forces you to get creative. From using extra tools or tackling it from a different angle – I always figure out a way to get the job done accurately.”
Her determination hasn’t gone unnoticed. One of her proudest moments came when she was awarded Apprentice of the Year award by the Shannon Aviation LCETB. Passing all her exams on the first try, with a 75% pass mark required was another milestone that really boosted her confidence.
Looking ahead, Orla sees endless possibilities. She hopes to earn her Aircraft Maintenance Licence and explore the many paths the aviation industry offers. She may not know exactly which direction she’ll take, but she’s certain of one thing: the apprenticeship has prepared her for whatever comes next. “It has made me a lot more confident and self-assured. It’s shown me I can do anything I put my mind to – even if it’s not the ‘norm’.”
For young women considering a future in aviation or engineering, Orla offers simple, powerful advice: “If you have an interest in it, do it! Forget what others might think. You never know if you like something until you try.”
Her journey is proof that with curiosity, courage, and a willingness to push boundaries, the sky isn’t the limit – it’s just the beginning!
Learn more about our apprenticeship programme and apply: https://www.atlanticaviation.ie/careers/4-year-apprenticeship/