My Experience at Micro Nav

Software Engineering Placement

June 2023 - September 2024

I completed my Software Engineering placement at Micro Nav, a company specialising in Air Traffic Control (ATC) training simulation software, called BEST. I have loved my time there and had the opportunity to work on two teams, learning a wide variety areas, from software development to aviation. I can't thank everyone enough for the support and experience I have received.

The first half of the placement, I was on the Automation Team. I worked on an automated testing tool, written in Python, for running tests nightly on the latest versions of their simulator and software suite. Over my time there, I took the tool from a basic prototype, to a fully functional tool. For the other half, I was on the Maintenance Team. Working to investigate and resolve bugs in their main C++ codebase, picking up tickets in everything, from the simulation engine, to the user interface, and tools that go along with it.

This photo is of one of their demo simulators, with airspace displays, ground displays, and a 3D tower display, along with the testing tool that I developed. I am proud to have had the opportunity to work in all of these areas, and more.

Micro Nav BEST Demo Simulator with Airspace, Ground, and 3D Tower Displays

Upon completion of my fifteen month placement, I was offered a zero-hour contract for the final year of University, to allow me to work in the holidays and gain further experience.

In recognition of my efforts, I was honoured to receive the Bournemouth University Highly Commended 2023-24 Award for outstanding performance and contribution while on industrial placement year at Micro Nav.

Bournemouth University Highly Commended 2023-24 Award for outstanding performance and contribution while on industrial placement year at Micro Nav

Graduate Software Engineer

October 2025 - Present

After completing my placement, I returned to Micro Nav as a Graduate Software Engineer in October 2025. Continuing on the Maintenance Team, I am investigating and resolving bugs in their main C++ codebase, covering the simulation engine, user interface, and related tools. This role allows me to build on the experience gained during my placement year, deepening my expertise in the BEST ATC training simulation software.