Nikki Kulin, a 58-year-old former teacher and entrepreneur, has embarked on an unconventional career path as a flight attendant for Virgin Atlantic, challenging traditional notions of retirement and career progression.
Kulin's journey into aviation began during a family vacation to Orlando in 2022. A casual conversation with a crew member sparked her interest in the profession, leading her to apply for the position upon returning home. This decision marks a significant shift from her previous roles in education and business, including her specialization in destination weddings across Europe.
The transition required dedication and hard work. Kulin underwent a rigorous five-week training course, which culminated in an exam with an 88% pass mark. This intensive preparation reflects the aviation industry's commitment to safety and service standards, a practice that has evolved significantly since the 1930s when airlines first began hiring nurses as flight attendants.
Kulin's new role allows her to explore Virgin Atlantic's 32 global destinations, a perk that aligns with her self-described "incurable wanderlust." Her recent experiences include touring traditional markets in Delhi and visiting the Taj Mahal, a 17th-century architectural marvel, with her son. These opportunities not only satisfy her love for travel but also contribute to the global tourism industry, which accounts for approximately 10% of global GDP.
"I just love to go to work. I have an insatiable and incurable wanderlust, and I love nothing more than getting on an aircraft and going somewhere."
The aviation veteran believes her age and life experience give her a distinct advantage in her role. She can navigate challenging situations with ease and find innovative ways to enhance passenger experience. This perspective aligns with recent industry trends, as evidenced by EasyJet's "returnship" campaign aimed at recruiting individuals over 50 for cabin crew positions.
While the job offers unique travel opportunities, it comes with financial considerations. The average annual salary for UK flight attendants ranges from £18,821 to £30,000, depending on experience. However, Kulin remains optimistic about her financial future, citing Virgin Atlantic's pension scheme, which matches employee contributions up to 10% of earnings.
Looking ahead, Kulin envisions continuing her aviation career for at least another decade, potentially working into her 90s. Her enthusiasm challenges conventional retirement age norms, which typically see UK workers retiring around 65. As life expectancy in the UK averages 81 years, Kulin's approach represents a shift in how individuals view work and retirement in later life.
Kulin's story serves as an inspiration for those considering career changes later in life, demonstrating that it's never too late to pursue new passions and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.