Looking back on my year as a Content Creator Apprentice at Aire Global, I’m amazed at how much I’ve accomplished. From working on big-name brands to developing skills in marketing, pack design, motion graphics, and e-commerce, this experience has shaped me into a more confident creative professional. But beyond the technical skills, it’s the people, the opportunities, and the inspiration I’ve gained that have truly made this year unforgettable.
The Reality of Working in Design
I initially pursued the university route, studying Graphic Design at the University of Huddersfield. It was a fantastic learning experience that helped me develop strong creative and technical skills.
However, like many graduates, I found it challenging to transition directly into the industry. An apprenticeship provided me with the perfect opportunity to continue honing my skills while gaining real-world experience in a fast-paced creative environment.
Before joining Aire Global, I spent my first year post-university freelancing, working on projects for clients ranging from local businesses to companies in LA. It was an exciting and challenging experience, but working at Aire introduced me to a whole new level of industry expertise. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned so far is the importance of time management. The fast-paced nature of agency life means balancing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and staying organised are essential skills. Learning to efficiently manage my workload has been key to my success throughout the apprenticeship.
Support, Team Culture & Mentorship
The level of support and mentorship I’ve received at Aire Global has been outstanding. Each team member has played a role in my development, offering guidance and insight from their respective areas of expertise. Simon and Amy introduced me to the complexities of point-of-sale design, an area I had very little prior knowledge of. Tom and Mel, working on the Kellanova account, have been instrumental in helping me understand the packaging process, from concept development to final production.
Sam has provided invaluable insight into e-commerce, helping me develop skills in digital retail environments. Jen has been incredibly supportive, always available to answer questions and provide direction. The amazing team of creative artworkers have helped me refine my attention to detail, the account managers have taught me how to interpret and break down client briefs, Lisa, our design director and Gavin, our global creative director have continuously challenged me to push my creative thinking further.
What truly makes Aire special is the team culture. From day one, I felt welcomed into a team that values collaboration, creativity, and personal growth. It’s not just about the work—it’s about the people. The regular work socials have been a great way to bond with colleagues outside the office, from casual get-togethers to team activities like indoor bouldering. These experiences have made my apprenticeship even more enjoyable, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired.
Unexpected Skills & New Passions
When I started at Aire, my focus was on packaging design, with my apprenticeship structured around content creation for marketing. However, as the year progressed, Lisa and Gavin recognised my passion for motion design and actively encouraged me to develop this skill further. Thanks to their support, I’ve been able to refine my animation skills, which has now become a key area of interest for me.
One of the biggest shifts in my approach to design has been learning that creativity isn’t just about making something look good—it’s about solving real-world problems. Whether it’s ensuring a brand stands out on the shelf, optimising a design for e-commerce, or creating engaging motion graphics, every project presents a unique challenge that requires both creativity and strategic thinking.
Inspiring the Next Generation
A defining moment of my apprenticeship was taking part in the Apprenticeship Careers Panel during National Apprenticeship Week. Speaking about my experiences, sharing my journey, and hopefully inspiring others to consider apprenticeships as a valuable career path was truly fulfilling. I remember being in their shoes not too long ago, full of questions and uncertainties, and it felt amazing to be in a position to offer guidance and encouragement.
Additionally, I had the opportunity to attend a careers fair at Corpus Christi in Leeds, where I spoke with students about my journey and the different pathways available in the creative industry. Seeing their enthusiasm and curiosity reaffirmed how important it is to share real-world experiences and help others navigate their career choices.
Transitioning from Apprentice to Full-Time Team Member
I’m incredibly excited to continue my journey with Aire Global as I transition into a full-time role. I’m grateful to Jonathan, Gavin, and Lisa for believing in my potential and giving me this opportunity. Entering the industry without extensive prior experience was daunting, but Aire has provided the perfect environment for me to grow and develop my skills.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue expanding my animation expertise and explore 3D software to enhance the content creation side of my role. At the same time, my passion for packaging design remains a focus, and I want to further refine my skills in this area. Ultimately, I strive to become a well-rounded designer who is great at what we do. I strive to bring innovative and impactful ideas to every project and can’t wait to see what is next.
Want to Know More?
If you’re considering an apprenticeship and want to hear more about my experience at Aire Global, feel free to get in touch at futures@aireglobal.com. And if you’re looking for an opportunity to develop your creative career, keep an eye out for future apprenticeship openings at Aire—it could just be the best step you take!