ESA Graduate Trainee Program Webinar Notes

Introduction

• Live stream session with Career Fairy and ESA representatives.
• Participants encouraged to interact via chat to confirm they can hear and see.
• Welcome to attendees including Patrick, Johanna, Paula, Nikki, Foras, Ivo, and others.
• Topic focus: ESA Graduate Trainee (EGT) Program.

Technical Issues

• Initial camera issues were addressed but audio was functioning.
• Quick introduction of Nicole Rossi, an ESA graduate trainee working in the Software and AI section.

ESA Overview

• ESA (European Space Agency) has 23 member states as of January 1 this year; Slovenia is the newest member.
• Collaborates with three associate members (Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia) and Canada as a cooperating state.
• ESA is unique as it operates exclusively for peaceful purposes, focusing on exploration and improving life on Earth.

ESA Structure and Budget

• Headquarters located in Paris; operational sites across Europe and South America (French Guiana).
• Annual budget: €7.8 billion, about €15 per European citizen.
• ESA is active in various areas of the space sector, particularly known for Earth observation and navigation.

ESA Graduate Trainee Program (EGT)

• EGT is a one-year program, with many trainees extending to two years.
• Candidates must:
  • Be from participating member states (including Bulgaria, Malta, Croatia, and Cyprus).
  • Be completing a Master's in their final year or have recently graduated.
• Applications open from February 1 to February 28 on jobs.esa.int.
• Maximum of three positions can be applied for.

Application Tips

• Take time to tailor your applications.
• Research positions thoroughly; consider educational requirements and how your background fits.
• Avoid generic responses; personalize your cover letters and CVs.
• Recommendation letters can enhance applications but are not mandatory.

Day-to-Day Life as an EGT

• Daily life can vary widely; EGTs are encouraged to engage socially and professionally.
• Opportunities for networking and involvement in various activities and projects.
• Importance of building relationships within the organization.

Experiences of Current EGTs

Nicole Rossi

• Background in physics; focus on AI and machine learning applied to space.
• Transitioned from ESTEC to EAC, emphasizing the collaborative environment and learning opportunities.
• Highlights the importance of cultural adaptation and social integration in the workplace.

Philip Klefka

• Systems engineer involved in the Mars Sample Return mission.
• Encourages building relevant experience through clubs and projects like rover building.
• Active involvement in Young ESA, supporting community and integration among young professionals.

Young ESA

• A community for young professionals at ESA, supporting networking and integration.
• Provides guidance through a newcomer’s guide and organizes events.
• Recent projects include YP-SAT, a satellite developed by young professionals.

Conclusion

• Importance of motivation and preparation in the application process.
• Reiterated the value of participating in ESA Academy trainings to gain experience.
• Recording of the session will be available on the ESA careers website for future reference.
• Contact [email protected] for unanswered questions.
• Reminder of another webinar scheduled for Wednesday next week.