When I started the Jetstar grad program in November 2022, I had no Idea what to expect. I had a bit of aviation experience, and a strong desire to learn. I found out very quickly that at Jetstar, anyone with a desire to learn is going to have a plethora of opportunities thrown their way. Each opportunity will challenge you and grow you as an aviation professional. I also never expected to have so much fun - the people and culture at Jetstar make it a warm, welcoming environment where the most challenging days are also the days I laugh and smile the most.
Rotation One: Human Factors Training (Flying Operations)
My first rotation was in the Flying Operations Human Factors Training department where I was immediately tasked with developing part of the latest edition of Jetstar's cyclical Human Factors Training. The gravity of this project didn’t quite register until it was finished, and I was sitting in a classroom with Pilots and Cabin Crew, watching them receive the training that I created with my team. This training was delivered to every single Pilot and Cabin Crew in the business over the course of a year - that’s thousands of people.
In this rotation I also had the privilege of working with Jetstar's Boeing 787 Fleet Management team to aid them with analysis for the 787 half-life refresh. I know it will be a surreal experience to fly on our refurbished 787, knowing I played a small part in making it happen.
Rotation Two: Operational Strategy and Cost Transformation
My second rotation allowed me to enhance my analytical skills while helping Jetstar and Qantas to reduce its carbon footprint and achieve its sustainability goals, something I am personally very passionate about. I had the privilege of conducting analysis for several fuel initiatives in a team which is expected to reduce Jetstar’s CO2 emissions by over 20 million kilograms for FY24.
Considering the importance of sustainability in aviation, I’m so glad Jetstar gave me the opportunity to work in this field during my grad program. It has provided me with the tools to engage in the sustainability conversation as Jetstar and the Qantas Group works toward our pledge for net-zero Carbon Emissions by 2050.
Other notable opportunities
Quite incredibly, I’ve also had a number of significant opportunities arise outside of my main graduate rotations. There are always projects around the business that need extra hands, and there are always learning and training opportunities within the graduate program, as well as in the wider business. I’ve travelled more for work in the last year than I ever had before. Some notable inclusions are:
- A Business Strategy project sent me to Sydney, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Townsville, Newcastle, and Proserpine;
- A 787 project sent me to Cairns;
- A Cabin Baggage project sent me to Auckland;
- Dedicated graduate development days;
- Mental Health First Aid Training;
- Opportunities to train and network with Qantas graduates;
- Dedicated training days for operating internal systems;
- Several days at Melbourne Airport to help with and experience day-to-day operations.
Advice for future Graduates
My short time at Jetstar has been filled with opportunities. I’d implore anyone with a desire to learn, and an interest in the aviation industry to apply for the graduate program. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity where you will immediately be surrounded by a network of graduates, whose collective understanding spans the entire business. The program is run by a friendly, helpful, and highly knowledgeable team who are always willing to help you reach your goals and get the most out of your program.
Good luck with your application, I look forward to meeting you!
