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26 March 2025, London – Virgin Atlantic has become the first airline to launch the new AI Champion apprenticeship, developed and delivered by UK-based data and AI education provider Cambridge Spark. The programme is designed to build AI awareness and adoption across the business by training non-technical employees to become internal advocates for AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT.
The first cohort, which begins this week, includes employees from departments such as Flight Operations, Engineering, Finance, Communications, and the People Team. Participants will develop the skills to identify AI opportunities in their roles and support their colleagues in using AI tools effectively and responsibly.
This milestone marks another step in Virgin Atlantic's commitment to future-focused skills and technology-led transformation. By strategically placing AI Champions across key departments, the airline is creating a powerful network of experts who can help colleagues leverage AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT to solve business challenges and streamline everyday tasks.
The AI Champion apprenticeship programme builds on Virgin Atlantic's early adoption of Microsoft Copilot and expands its broader apprenticeship strategy, which now includes programmes across Data, Software Development, Sustainability and Engineering. By investing in practical AI capability across diverse business functions, Virgin Atlantic is establishing a strong foundation for continued innovation and operational excellence.
Becky Woodmansee, Chief People Officer at Virgin Atlantic, commented: "Virgin Atlantic has always been a people-first, purpose-led organisation, driven by the belief that everyone can take on the world and we're proud to be the first airline to invest in AI Champions through this groundbreaking programme. These apprentices will play a vital role in helping our teams explore and embrace the benefits of AI in their day-to-day work, unlocking new levels of productivity and creativity. It's part of our wider strategy to empower our people with the tools and skills they need to thrive in a digital world."
The AI Champion apprenticeship is a 13-month Level 3 programme designed for non-technical professionals. It includes hands-on training in tools like Microsoft Copilot, as well as modules on AI fundamentals, automation, prompt engineering, ethical AI, and how to lead AI adoption within teams. The curriculum is tailored to practical workplace needs, helping participants apply what they learn directly to their roles.
Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma, Founder and Group CEO of Cambridge Spark, commented:
“Virgin Atlantic is leading the way in AI adoption within the aviation sector. By developing AI Champions across different business areas, they’re enabling their people to embed AI tools in ways that make a real operational difference. This kind of initiative is essential for making AI adoption scalable, inclusive and aligned with wider business goals.”
The launch follows recent momentum for Cambridge Spark, which earlier this year began delivery of the UK’s first Level 6 AI Engineer apprenticeship in partnership with 27 employers. In 2024, the company was listed in The Sunday Times 100 Fastest-Growing Companies.
This latest partnership reflects growing demand for practical, workforce-wide approaches to AI capability building. For Virgin Atlantic, it reinforces a focus on employee development and digital innovation as key drivers of long-term success.
ENDS
About Cambridge Spark
Founded in 2016 by Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma, Cambridge Spark is one of the largest digital skills education providers in the UK. It helps businesses upskill their workforces in AI and data skills through immersive, practical, and educational programmes and has worked with household-name firms across various industries. In 2024, it was listed in The Sunday Times 100 of the UK's fastest-growing companies.
About Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic was founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson in 1984, with innovation and amazing customer service at its core. The airline provides long-haul, high-value passenger and cargo services and flies to destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Alongside shareholder and Joint Venture partner Delta Air Lines, Virgin Atlantic operates a leading transatlantic network, with onward connections to over 200 cities around the world.
For further information please contact the Virgin Atlantic press office on +44 1293 747373 or email press.office@fly.virgin.com
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