In nearly nine years of covering the MRO industry for Aviation Week, one thing I have noticed is that people who begin careers in aviation tend to stay in the industry. It also seems fairly common for people to follow in the footsteps of family members who work in aviation and MRO.
Serendipitously, I stumbled on several stories this year that have a family connection. It has been really cool and inspiring to see family members embark on aviation maintenance technician (AMT) career paths together. Ahead of AMT Day (May 24) this year, Aviation Week is sharing a few of those stories.
- Marco Tijerina and his daughter, Samantha Tijerina, recently competed on separate teams at the Aerospace Maintenance Council’s Competition at MRO Americas. The experience reaffirmed Samantha's passion for the industry, which her dad inspired her to pursue. Read Marco and Samantha's story.
- In a unique twist, Micheal McDaniel decided to take inspiration from his son, Cole McDaniel, and finally pursue a career in aviation maintenance—something he had been thinking about during a career spanning more than two decades and multiple industries. The McDaniels just graduated from the same AMT school with their airframe and powerplant licenses. Read Micheal and Cole’s story.
- Joe Steiper just reached his 45th anniversary at Delta Air Lines, where he leads airframe maintenance projects in Atlanta. The joy he takes in his work was contagious, and two of his sons, Brandon and Kevin Steiper, followed suit after their childhood exposure to aviation. Read Joe’s story.
- Ben and Matthew Zuvich are two brothers who took advantage of Piedmont Airlines’ tuition payment program to jump-start their careers in the MRO industry at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. The brothers have bonded through their common careers, which began in the same airline hangar. Read Ben and Matthew’s story.
These stories are proof that early exposure to aviation and word-of-mouth endorsements can get young people interested in pursuing aviation careers. We hope they inspire our readers to spread the word about MRO career paths and to consider outreach opportunities that give kids the chance to see aviation technology firsthand.
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