Meet Isaac, a recent high school graduate with a Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance* under his belt. Isaac is currently working at Alliance Airlines’ heavy maintenance facility in Rockhampton, where he has just embarked on his journey as an apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. With a deep-seated passion for aviation and a love for hands-on technical work, Isaac is turning his dreams into reality. In this interview, he shares his journey, challenges, and advice for others aspiring to follow a similar path.
Tell us a bit more about your passion for aviation. Where did it start? How is your passion for aviation fuelled these days?
My passion for aviation was originally sparked by my dad, who would take me to airshows to watch the incredible array of aircraft taking to the skies. Witnessing these machines in action was always fascinating and left a lasting impression on me. Alongside this, I’ve always had a strong interest in understanding how things work mechanically. At home, I love tinkering with my motorbike and car, figuring out the intricate mechanisms that make them function. These dual passions—aviation and mechanics—drove me to pursue a career in aircraft maintenance. Today, working on real aircraft and seeing the practical applications of my training fuels my enthusiasm even further.
What school did you attend and how did you get to know about the Cert II in Aircraft Line Maintenance?
I attended Emmaus College Rockhampton and graduated in 2024. For much of my school life, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do after graduating. I was essentially going through the motions, hoping things would fall into place. The first time I heard about the Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance was through a school email. It hadn’t crossed my mind before that I could work in an industry, I was genuinely passionate about. What convinced me to apply was my deep interest in aviation and the opportunity to get hands-on experience with advanced equipment and technology—a rare chance for most people.
What was the most challenging aspect of the course, and how did you overcome it? What was the best aspect of it?
The most challenging part of the course was retaining the complex information presented on paper, as I’m more of a visual and hands-on learner. Aircraft are intricate machines with countless components, each playing a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient flights. What helped me overcome this challenge was the support of our instructors and the practical experiences provided. Our instructor, with his extensive real-world experience, broke down difficult topics with relatable examples and stories, making the material much easier to grasp.
The best part of the course was the environment. Spending a full day each week in an aircraft hangar was a refreshing change from the regular classroom setting. Additionally, the course opened up incredible opportunities. Being in a real maintenance facility allowed me to build valuable connections, which led to a part-time job as a stores officer while I was still in school. That role ultimately paved the way for my current full-time position as an apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer.
What advice would you give to someone considering this course?
Firstly, don’t miss out on the opportunity. The course is a fantastic way to gain your Certificate II while exploring fascinating topics and stepping out of the typical classroom routine. Secondly, choose school subjects that align with your career interests. You don’t need to be a rocket scientist, but having some background knowledge can make understanding challenging topics easier. Finally, stay passionate, work hard, and ask lots of questions. Your enthusiasm and eagerness to learn won’t go unnoticed and will help you stand out.
How are you using the knowledge you gained, and what are your future plans?
Completing this course has led me to my dream career. It gave me a solid foundation of knowledge and introduced me to the basics of working in an aviation maintenance facility. I’ve learned about the design and repair of various aircraft types, knowledge that I now apply daily as an apprentice engineer. Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue learning, honing my skills, and building a fulfilling career in aviation.
*Course Code: Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance (MEA20518)