Having gained his private pilot’s licence at 16, Simon Watson completed a masters in Physics at Durham University in the UK. It was during this degree that he had his first experience of a coding language – python.
From there, Watson taught himself multiple coding languages and experimented with software Applications. Following graduation, he went on to train as an airline pilot in the UK flying for multiple carriers. After spending six years at his last tech start-up, he is now continuining his passion for technology at Aerios – enabling brokers, charter professionals and carriers to work more efficiently, surface real-time data and maximise revenue opportunities.
What was your dream job as a child?
Since I can remember, I always wanted to become an airline pilot. My father bought me an air experience flight for my 13th birthday and from then on I was hooked.
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in the industry?
I would say that the market has become more receptive to the positive impact technology can bring to their organisation.
What’s one buzzword you secretly dislike?
Circle back – It’s literally the most indirect way of getting anywhere.
Window or aisle seat?
Good question – I’m quite tall so the aisle seat always.
What’s the best business lesson you’ve learned the hard way?
Always be willing and open to question yourself, strategy and plans. There is no room for ego at an early stage startup. Be open to the fact that what you thought was the “right” thing to be could actually be completely wrong.
If you could swap jobs with anyone for a day, who would it be?
It would have to be a software developer. The digital nomad lifestyle has its perks.
Which three items would you bring to a desert island?
iPhone, headphones and a book.
Tea or coffee?
Black Americano.
What’s your guilty pleasure TV show or movie?
Below Deck.
If you could introduce one new regulation in air cargo, what would it be?
That everyone has to do a short course to understand what an API is and isn’t.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
Michael Buble – Feeling good.
Describe your job in three words.
Exciting, frustrating and fulfilling.
What’s your hidden talent?
I can play the saxophone.
If you could instantly master one skill, what would it be?
The art of being less British and reserved.
What’s something on your bucket list?
I would love to go to Hawaii – Big Jurassic park fan boy.
What’s the best airport in the world, and why?
Funchal, Madeira. It’s great to fly into with an amazing approach and one end of the runway is literally on stilts in ocean.
How did you get into airfreight/logistics?
I just followed my passion of trying to help solve people’s problems through technology.
What quote has most resonated with you?
“Find a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Never give up on yourself. If you fall, fall forward not backward.
What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?
I went scuba diving down 100ft onto a sunken British Galleon off the coast of Mauritius.
What’s something we wouldn’t know about you from your CV?
I actually don’t like heights.
