Student Spotlight - Egan Ibrahim
Are you considering aviation as a career? Are you looking to study towards a Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence? Would you like your training delivered by an organisation that has served the training needs of the aviation and aerospace sector for 40 years and employs over 100 people across the UK, Switzerland, Germany, Spain, France and Asia, with over 1100 staff deployed on contracts across the globe and trains in excess of 1000 industry professionals annually.
This unique course at UHI Perth is the only one of its kind in the UK and is designed to produce graduate-calibre aircraft maintenance engineers. We had a chat with a student who has just finished their second year to find out how they are enjoying the course so far ⬇️
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Egan Ibrahim. My parents are originally from Sudan, but I was born in Saudi Arabia.
What course are you studying at UHI Perth?
I study the BSc (Hons) Aircraft Engineering Maintenance and Management, and I have just finished my second year.
How did you hear about UHI Perth?
I heard about UHI Perth through a person within industry. I was told this course will help me progress much easier because I could do a modular course - with Resource Group - whilst studying the degree.
What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?
I was a student in secondary school. I finished sixth year and then immediately started the course.
Why did you decide to pick this course?
I trusted the word of the engineer a lot, and truth be told I had always wanted to be a maintenance engineer, so this course is the best fit for me, because I get a degree AND a certificate that allows me to work within a hanger.
What is your favourite thing about the course?
I love how one learns a lot in such a short span of time. You need to balance traditional university assignments, modular exams, and practical work, all at the same time! It’s perfect for someone like me who needs to be on the go constantly, and it is a good introduction to how fast pace the industry can be (and probably is)!
Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?
The first time I entered a hanger. It felt like home. Being surrounded with planes, helicopters, engines and so many disassembled parts, it felt almost surreal. Everything was quite large! It felt like a little taste of what’s to come in the future.
What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?
I’ve gained a lot.
Practical knowledge to be used in industry.
I’ve learned coding skills with MATLAB.
I’ve learned how to use CATIA - a CAD software commonly used in industry.
I’ve learned how to use tools I had never heard of before this course, and now I feel very confident with them.
Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?
Extremely. I’m incredibly grateful for my lecturers and all the support they’ve provided throughout my studies. Whether it was help with understanding the course content or support from my PAT and external services with personal matters, they were always there when I needed them. I never hesitate to get in touch, and I know I can always rely on them for guidance and support.
Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?
I’d like to think so! I’ve managed to participate in external events - such as the renewable energy event thanks to my scholarship.
I also would like to think learning how to create a model of a plane’s skin is also a great achievement.
What do you like about the campus/facilities?
I love how everything is so close by, it takes less than seven minutes to get from one end to another. The college isn’t massive either, so it isn’t overwhelming to newcomers.
Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?
Definitely! I wouldn’t trade my time in UHI Perth for anything. I love how interactive one can be with the community, whether it be participating in open day events or interviews (that’s certainly a highlight of this past year).
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?
Yes! I tend to be at the gym a lot to take care of my health, and you need to be strong in this career path, metal isn’t light. I like to draw too, as well as listen to music.
What are your future career plans?
I plan to continue studying until the end of my course, then start working within the industry towards my aircraft maintenance B1.1 license with a company. I’m not sure where yet, but I’m eyeing up Ryanair.
And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?
Make sure your time management is on point! This course feels like two degrees at the same time, one could easily drown in their own assignments if you’re not keeping track of everything.
I would also like to advice to make sure you make time to take care of yourself and your mental health. It’s easy to get lost in the books, and sometimes a weekend spent at home relaxing would do you so much more justice compared to going out with friends 😊
