We believe STEM careers in aviation and aerospace can take you anywhere. In this, the first of our young female aerospace career profiles, we talk to Jodie Fair, a 26 year old Aircraft Maintenance Engineer about how she got to where she is today, and what advice she has for young women interested in a career working with flying machines.
Tell us about what you do and where you work
I’m a Propeller Technician, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer at GE Aviation Systems. I maintain and repair the propellers of Dash 8, C130 , C27 and Fokker aircraft so that they can keep everyone flying safely.
What qualifications do you have?
I have a Certificate IV in Aeroskills (Mechanical and Structural). I’m also an Ergonomic Assessor, Lock Out Tag Out and Health and Safety Representative.
What has been your most important work experience?
Visiting our sister site in Richmond, NSW was a great experience for me. I could see how their workshop operated and where ours could grow. It was interesting to come into a different team where I was welcomed as a trainer by a wholly male team who had all been in the industry for decades.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a kid I didn’t know what I was going to be, I just knew how much I loved aviation and that I wanted to be a part of that. It wasn’t until grade 10 that I learned about this career pathway and decided the hands-on, technical atmosphere was just right for me.
Where do you see yourself in 5 or 10 years?
My 5 year plan is to be studying towards a Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering, while working in a similarly hands-on role in the space industry. My 10 year goal is to contribute to a team that sends their creations to space.
What’s one piece of advice you have for a young person today?
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it, just give these things a try. You’ve got more potential than the nay-sayer, and you’ll go further than the person who wonders ‘what if’, and it’s the person in the arena that counts. If you’re the one trying and pushing limits you’re the voice that matters