02 Dec 2025
Participants from Hamelin’s Ability Works employment training programme enjoyed an informative visit to Southend Airport. The group was given a presentation covering roles in customer service, security, operations, and many other areas that keep the airport running each day.
Ability Works supports autistic adults and people with learning disabilities as they move towards employment, and the visit offered a valuable opportunity to explore real workplace environments within the aviation sector. It was interesting for participants to see the variety of roles available at the airport, including positions in IT, hospitality and other areas that they had not expected.
Lisa from the HR team and her colleagues welcomed the group and introduced the wide range of career opportunities across the site. The presentation helped participants understand how different teams collaborate and what skills are valued in each setting. It also encouraged them to think about how their own strengths and interests could suit a future role in aviation.
A highlight of the visit was a guided tour of the Jet Centre, where the group was able to see behind the scenes of private aviation. Staff explained the daily routines involved in managing flights and supporting passengers, sharing examples of teamwork and attention to detail that the roles require.
Participants asked thoughtful questions throughout the day, covering topics from training requirements to what it is like to work in a busy airport environment.
The experience provided valuable insight, increased confidence and a clearer understanding of potential career pathways. It also strengthened the link between Hamelin and local employers who play an important part in creating inclusive opportunities.
Markie Musilova, Hamelin’s Employment Manager, said, “We are grateful to Lisa and the Southend Airport team for their time, their openness and their commitment to supporting our participants. Opportunities like this help people to explore work settings in a supportive way, and they play an important role in preparing individuals for meaningful, long term employment.”
Ability Works is based at Hamelin’s Rochford Sutton Farm site and offers workshops, one to one mentoring, CV writing, interview preparation and work experience opportunities. Drop in sessions are also available in Chelmsford.
For more information, contact abilityworks@hamelin.org.uk