Spotlight on Talent – Kyla

Studied: Level 2 Aviation and Cabin Crew
Progression: Cabin Crew – 

With help from Walsall College, Kyla turned her passion for travel into a career as cabin crew. Here, she reflects on her time as a college student, shares how the course prepared her for life as cabin crew, and offers advice to students hoping to follow in her footsteps.

Why were you interested in the travel industry?

“I’ve always had a passion for aviation. When I was younger, I always looked up to the cabin crew staff whenever I went on holiday. I think that’s what inspired me to get into the industry – combining my love of travel with the opportunity to see different places.”

How has your course helped prepare you for a career in the industry?

“There are lots of skills I learned on the course that I use in my day-to-day role. Learning about aircraft evacuations, especially developing strong customer service skills has been very valuable as every day you interact with different passengers who all have different needs.”

During your time at college, what stood out to you most about your course?

“The cabin in the classroom really stood out to me. It’s very similar to a real aircraft and gives you a realistic idea of what you’ll be working with every day. The tutors are amazing – they understand the industry and bring that knowledge into everything you learn in the classroom.”

Now that you’ve completed your course and are doing your dream job, what do you find most rewarding?

“It’s getting to take people on holiday and helping make their journey a great experience. Making sure every passenger is treated equally, gets the support they need during the flight, and seeing them enjoy their time on board is incredibly rewarding.”

If you could share one message with parents and future students, what would it be?

“All the teachers on this course are professionals who have worked in the industry. They know the skills you’ll need and are incredibly supportive. They prepare you for real-life situations you’ll encounter in the workplace and give you a great head start. If your child is passionate about the industry, encourage them to follow their dreams.”

And finally –

One essential thing you always take with you on your shift.

I always have to have a lip-gloss in my bag; I like to have a nice fresh lip gloss on for whenever we are disembarking the passengers and when we are boarding as well.

Favourite meal to have on a flight.

Ham and cheese panini on board. But if I take my own food, I like a chicken Caesar salad.

Favourite place you’ve visited since being a cabin crew member.

My favourite place so far has to be Tirana, which is in Albania. It looks really nice, I only got to see 25 minutes of it, but it looks really beautiful and I’d like to go there on holiday!