Belfast City Airport Celebrates Graduation of Three Apprentices Now Joining the Fire and Rescue Service
(IN SHORT) Three apprentices from Belfast City Airport’s High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme—Aoibh Caroll, Jay Sempey, and Nicole Dallot—have completed their training and are now joining the Airport Fire and Rescue Service. The trio underwent a thorough training process in both academic and practical aspects of fire safety and emergency response. Their achievements were recognized at a ceremony attended by their families. Paddy Hughes, Airport Fire Service Manager, highlighted their dedication and professionalism. The apprenticeship programme plays a crucial role in developing local talent, with participants gaining valuable experience in a range of fire safety and aviation-related procedures.
(PRESS RELEASE) BELFAST, 2025-Apr-28 — /Travel PR News/ — Three individuals from Belfast City Airport’s High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme have officially completed their training and are now set to join the ranks of the Airport Fire and Rescue Service.
The graduation ceremony, held at the Airport Fire Station, saw the apprentices—Aoibh Caroll from Camlough, Jay Sempey from Newtownards, and Nicole Dallot from Newtownabbey—demonstrating the skills they developed throughout their comprehensive training. The event was made even more special with the presence of their families, who celebrated the remarkable milestone.
The apprentices, who joined the programme in 2024, participated in a challenging curriculum that blended academic instruction with hands-on firefighting experience. Their training also provided a solid foundation in emergency response techniques and aviation-specific safety procedures.
Paddy Hughes, the Airport Fire Service Manager, praised the graduates for their commitment and team spirit, saying:
“Aoibh, Jay, and Nicole have all displayed incredible drive and professionalism. Their contribution to our team is highly valued. The High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme is an essential part of our strategy to cultivate local talent, empowering emerging professionals and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the aviation industry.”
The High Flyers Programme, which is aimed at fostering homegrown talent, provides participants with the chance to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of airport fire safety and emergency management. It also offers a unique career pathway for those seeking a rewarding role within the aviation sector.
Reflecting on her journey, Aoibh shared her gratitude for the programme’s impact:
“Being part of the High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme has been an incredible experience. Not only has it helped me grow professionally, but it has also allowed me to follow in my family’s footsteps in the firefighting world. My father retired from the fire service, and my brother is still active in Northern Ireland’s Fire Service, so this career feels very close to home for me.”
Jay expressed his pride in completing the programme and being part of such a respected organization:
“I’m so proud of what we’ve all achieved together. The support from everyone at the airport has been outstanding, and I’m thrilled to have completed my training with such a renowned team.”
Nicole added that the apprenticeship had opened many new opportunities:
“This programme has been life-changing for me. I’m excited to start this next phase of my career and contribute to the fire and rescue service in a meaningful way.”
Belfast City Airport continues to invest in programs that support skills development and innovation across all facets of the business, and the High Flyers Apprenticeship Programme remains a key part of its long-term vision for nurturing future talent in Northern Ireland.
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SOURCE: Belfast City Airport
