A Chinook crew, from RAF Odiham, flew to three different schools to inspire the next generation in all aspects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Flight Lieutenant Boyd, Flight Lieutenant Wilkie, Sergeant Fitzpatrick and Sergeant Mortimer, were joined by a team of engineers, forming the RAF Odiham Chinook crew.
They flew to their previous schools discussing with students the mechanics of aviation and how the crew work together to operate the airframe, as well as their personal career journey in the RAF.
Flight Lieutenant Boyd joined the University Air Squadron while at university, opening her eyes to military aviation and the opportunities a career in the RAF can offer.
"Since getting to the front line in 2017 my expectations for travel and adventure have been well and truly met by my experience flying the Chinook. I hope by visiting my old school, Newlands Girls School, the pupils will gain an awareness of a career which is traditionally very male-dominated."
Flight Lieutenant Boyd
Flight Lieutenant Wilkie was an Air Cadet before going to the Southampton University Air Squadron. She studied Mathematics and went on to join the RAF as a pilot, pursuing her interest in the lifestyle offered by the RAF; outdoors, sporty, and adventurous.
Flight Lieutenant Wilkie completed her Elementary Flying Training at RAF Wittering, followed by Basic and Advanced rotary training on the Airbus 135 Juno at RAF Shawbury. In between courses Flight Lieutenant Wilkie worked at No. 22 Group, for Director of Flying Training at MOD Abbeywood, Flight Operations at RAF Shawbury and studied the French language course at Defence Academy Shrivenham. She joined 27 Squadron Chinook crew at RAF Odiham in 2024.
Sergeant Fitzpatrick left school in 2003 seeking a less than ordinary career. She joined the RAF in 2009 after completing training at RAF Shawbury and winning the Thalis Trophy for best on course.
Then, Sergeant Fitzpatrick started working with 27 Squadron Chinook crew at RAF Odiham. This led to opportunities travelling around the world, including America, Sweden, Norway, as well as three tours on Operation Shader, Operation Newcombe and Operation Arenga.
Sergeant Mortimer joined the RAF in 2013, after showing an interest in travelling and aviation.
"Since joining I have been lucky enough to have travelled to 9 different countries with work. I left Highcliffe school in 2008, with the aspiration to become a maths teacher! I have very fond memories of my time there and hope we can give the students an insight into life in the RAF."
Sergeant Mortimer
The Chinook is an extremely capable and highly versatile support helicopter used for trooping, resupply and battlefield casualty evacuation. It is fitted with a suite of self-defence equipment allowing it to operate across the battlespace and can carry up to 55 troops or up to approximately 10 tonnes of mixed cargo.
