Virgin Atlantic partners with Cambridge Spark to launch industry first AI champion apprenticeship

Virgin Atlantic has become the first airline to introduce the innovative AI Champion apprenticeship program, partnering with leading education technology firm Cambridge Spark to accelerate digital transformation across the organisation. 

The inaugural cohort of AI Champions spans multiple critical departments across Virgin Atlantic, with the groundbreaking initiative launching this week. The program is specifically designed to equip non-technical professionals with the skills and confidence to champion AI adoption within their respective teams, driving productivity, efficiency, and innovation throughout the Business. 

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—including Flight Operations, Engineering, Finance, Communications, and the People Team—the airline is creating a powerful network of experts who can help colleagues leverage AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot to solve business challenges and streamline everyday tasks.

The AI Champion apprenticeship program builds on Virgin Atlantic’s early adoption of Microsoft Copilot and expands its broader apprenticeship strategy, which now includes programs 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 program. 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.” 

Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma, Founder and Group CEO of Cambridge Spark, added: “We’re thrilled to support Virgin Atlantic as the first airline to adopt the AI Champion apprenticeship. Their commitment to developing practical AI capability across the organization sets a powerful example for the wider industry. By equipping their people to lead the way in AI adoption, Virgin Atlantic is creating a strong foundation for digital transformation that delivers real business impact. 

Virgin Atlantic’s AI Champion apprenticeship demonstrates the airline’s ongoing commitment to employee development and technological innovation. This strategic investment will help ensure the business remains agile and customer-focused in an ever-evolving landscape.”