The Vulcan to the Sky Trust, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has named Craig Shepherd as its new Chief Executive, placing him in charge of the charity that looks after Avro Vulcan XH558, the former Royal Air Force bomber based in Doncaster and held in trust for the nation. The Trust’s role is to protect and maintain XH558 while using the aircraft to support education and public engagement. That work includes keeping the aircraft to strict safety and engineering standards and using it to encourage interest in science, technology, engineering and maths across the UK.
Craig steps into the role as the Trust moves forward with plans to secure the long-term future of XH558 in Doncaster and widen public access to the aircraft through education-led projects. Speaking on his appointment, Craig Shepherd said: “XH558 is one of the most powerful symbols of British engineering ever created, and it deserves to be cared for with both realism and pride. Vulcan to the Sky Trust exists not simply to preserve the aircraft, but to use it responsibly – as a living classroom that shows what engineering excellence looks like in practice, and what it takes to keep something of this complexity safe, operational and relevant. My focus is on long-term sustainability: ensuring that every public engagement, educational activity and operational decision supports the future of XH558, rather than placing short-term demand ahead of long-term care.”
Under Craig’s leadership, the Trust will continue work on The Vulcan Experience, a planned education-led heritage site built around XH558. The project is intended to look at aviation’s past and future, including how the industry is changing and how it is responding to issues such as climate change. The Trust will also continue working with education and skills partners, including Skills Street, an immersive careers centre based at Gulliver’s Valley in Rotherham. The programme is aimed at helping young people learn about real jobs and develop an understanding of engineering, manufacturing, and technical careers by linking hands-on experience with career pathways.
Craig takes over from Marc Walters, who stepped down after ten years with the Trust, including three as Chief Executive. During that time, Marc played a key role in steadying the organisation and supporting its volunteers and backers. Craig Shepherd added: “Marc leaves a strong culture of professionalism and commitment, and a volunteer community that understands the responsibility that comes with operating an aircraft like XH558. I’m grateful for the foundations he leaves and excited to build on them.” For more information and to support the Vulkan to the Sky Trust, click on this link: vulcantothesky.org.
