Max’s Week at Aurora Avionics
What is it really like to spend a week inside a growing space technology company?
For 17-year-old Max McGregor, an S5 student at Stewart’s Melville College, that question was answered during a week of work experience with Aurora Avionics at our Edinburgh Innovation Hub.
Fresh from completing his Higher exams, Max joined the team to gain first-hand insight into the world of engineering, aerospace technology, and innovation. While he knew Aurora Avionics developed electronic systems for rockets and satellites, he wasn’t quite sure what to expect when he walked through the door on his first day.
“I was very excited about entering a new experience and doing something that was out of my comfort zone, but I was also quite nervous about what it would be like.”
Those nerves didn’t last long.
“Everyone was very welcoming from the Aurora Avionics team, and I immediately felt a part of the team.”
Discovering What Happens Behind the Scenes
Like many people, Max had only seen the finished products and headlines associated with the space industry. What surprised him most was seeing the amount of work, collaboration, and problem-solving that happens behind the scenes every day.
“I was quite surprised by the huge amount of work that goes on in the office and the lab and found it extremely interesting to see what really goes on in a company like this.”
Throughout the week, he joined team meetings, observed customer discussions, and worked alongside engineers developing technology that supports missions around the world.
One of the biggest eye-openers was discovering how international the space sector really is.
“I joined into many meetings with the staff and with customers and I discovered that the main customers for Aurora Avionics are from all over the world such as from France, Germany, and recently, Taiwan.”
For Max, these experiences offered a genuine glimpse into life inside a fast-growing technology business.
“Joining into these meetings gave me a real sense of what it’s like to work in a company like this and the sheer amount of effort it takes to be successful.”
Getting Hands-On with Engineering
Of course, no work experience placement at Aurora Avionics would be complete without spending time in the lab.
During the week, Max learned how to set up a Raspberry Pi, explored how our systems operate, and got hands-on experience with the technology our engineers work with every day.
“My favourite thing I did throughout the week was the practical work in the lab and in the office.”
Seeing the technology up close helped bring classroom learning to life.
“I found it very interesting and useful to see how the product really functioned and learning how to code information onto the modules.”
Beyond the technical side, Max was fascinated by how many different skills and disciplines come together to deliver successful projects.
“I was also very fascinated by how much coordination and teamwork is needed to deliver products like this, and how all the different areas of the business come together to create something that they are proud of.”
From engineering and operations to customer engagement and communications, the experience demonstrated that innovation is always a team effort.
Learning Through Challenge
Stepping into a highly technical environment can feel daunting, especially when you’re surrounded by experienced engineers and unfamiliar concepts.
But for Max, that challenge became one of the most valuable parts of the week.
“At first, I thought I was going to struggle to understand many things, but in general the staff explained most things to me.”
And even when things weren’t immediately clear, his curiosity kept him engaged.
“I still found it a challenge to understand lots of things but that meant I was still curious and ready to learn.”
That willingness to ask questions and embrace new experiences is exactly the mindset that drives innovation throughout the space industry.
Advice for Future Work Experience Students
When asked what advice he would give to future students considering a placement at Aurora Avionics, Max’s answer was simple:
“Be ready to learn new things and don’t feel bad about yourself if something challenges you, because that is the whole point.”
He also highlighted one lesson that he’ll take with him into future studies and careers:
“The biggest thing I learned was to always ask questions if something doesn’t make sense to you.”
Looking Towards the Future
Reflecting on the week, Max described the experience as both enjoyable and eye-opening.
“My week with Aurora Avionics has changed my view on the world of work, as going in every day felt exciting, knowing I had the opportunity to learn and discover new skills and interests.”
Perhaps most importantly, the experience helped him see new possibilities for his future.
“This week has helped me gain a new perspective on what I can do in the future.”
At Aurora Avionics, we’re passionate about supporting the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators. It was a pleasure to welcome Max to the team, and we’re delighted that his week with us provided valuable skills, confidence, and inspiration for the future.
We wish him every success in the years ahead and look forward to welcoming more aspiring engineers through our doors.
Read Max’s full article about his experience with Aurora Avionics here.
