MSc in Management (Aviation Leadership) – Michael Ennis, Aer Lingus

My name is Michael Ennis and I am an alumnus of the DCU MSc in Management (Aviation Leadership). I am a First Officer for Aer Lingus, currently flying the Airbus A320 fleet. I’ve always had a passion for the aviation industry so completing the MSc was a great opportunity for me to increase my knowledge and gain a greater understanding of the many different areas of the business.

I completed my flight training in 2018, having done so through the modular route. This allowed me to continue working while also studying and flying for my CPL/Multi Engine Instrument Rating. My first commercial aviation job was on the B737 before I was offered a position with Aer Lingus.

Prior to flying, I worked in Flight Crew Sourcing for 3 years, after which I moved into a closer involvement in the aircraft leasing side of the industry when I obtained the role of Project Manager in Ferry Flight Services. This job entailed providing flight crew and logistical support to leasing companies for delivery/demonstration and post maintenance flights.

I applied for the MSC in Management (Aviation leadership) as I wanted to gain a broader knowledge of the industry. The course appealed to me as it had a very good balance of academic and practical learning, delivered by the experienced course lecturers and guest lecturers who are very high profile within the industry. This gave us an invaluable opportunity to see how the elements we were learning can be put to use in successful airlines and leasing companies.

The course itself covers a broad selection of modules all of which have an emphasis on leadership and its importance. I have found this to be very beneficial to me, particularly in my career, as good leadership skills are a strong attribute for pilots. It has also given me a good understanding of the different styles of leadership. The airline management module gave me an understanding of the complexities of the airline business outside of the aircraft, and has helped me develop an appreciation for the commercial aspects that are interwoven with my job as a pilot.

I would recommend the MSc in Management (Aviation Leadership) for anyone who is looking to gain a solid knowledge of the aviation industry and the areas within it. The unique learning environment provides a great opportunity to gain experience both from the lecturers themselves and also the other students on the course, who in my case had vast experience also. I worked hard to achieve the job as a First Officer with Aer Lingus and have no doubt the work done through the MSc benefited me during the selection process. The knowledge I gained through the course has most certainly given me a strong foundation in dealing with any future challenges that will be faced throughout my career.