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.