From Classroom to Cockpit: The Journey of an Aviation Maintenance Student
Choosing a career in aviation maintenance was the last thing I anticipated. As a young Bahamian female who grew up on a little island in the middle of nowhere, now studying to be an aircraft technician at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is mind-blowing!
I recall my first semester of university being like no other. Thinking about it, spending 8+ hours per day in the classroom, being surrounded by 97% men, and having to go above and beyond in every task just to be noticed was excruciating. Although it was tough, I really enjoyed getting my hands dirty, learning how to rivet, safety wire, time a magneto, run engines, troubleshoot, and so much more. Exploring a field in aviation maintenance was a breath of fresh air for me, considering nobody in my family is in the field.
“It’s your time to shine,” I told myself as my first internship opportunity presented itself. I traveled back home to work with a local airline company in Nassau, Bahamas. It was really eye-opening for me but expected. As I looked around the hangar floor, I began to realize there were no women. For a moment, I was a bit discouraged, but then I realized that this was a privilege and opportunity.
Being the only female, and the first student pursuing an A&P license to work with them, I got a lot of attention and experience. I remember being all over the floor, from avionics to tire bay, sheet metal, battery shop, line maintenance, and stores. I wanted it all. It was a new opportunity for me to shine, and I took advantage of it.
Although I already consider myself a technician, I will be taking my FAA airframe, orals and practicals, transition from an aviation maintenance student, to becoming the real deal! My last year of university is quickly approaching, and I am more than proud to say that at the age of 18, I will have my Airframe license, already having experience on the Boeing 737-700, ATR 42&72-600, Cessna 208 Grand Caravan, Cessna 172&152, Learjet 60, DHC-8, and an Embraer Legacy 600.
Going from classroom to cockpit as an aviation maintenance student wasn’t the easiest, but definitely possible. From the classroom, I adapted myself; in the field, I did the same. If you really want it, it’s doable. Especially as a female, it’s harder, and you must have a thick skin. If you’re pursuing the same career as me and feel like giving up, think of me and how I did it. You can do the same with the help of God and your willingness.
About the Author
Bahamian-born aircraft mechanic and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University graduate, working in aviation maintenance at Brooksville Regional Airport. Only the third woman from the Bahamas to hold an FAA Airframe and Powerplant certification, she returned to ERAU on a GALA scholarship to complete her bachelor's degree with a business minor.
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