Exploring Aerospace Technology & AME with Sherry Holmes

 

 

 

 

When you think about the skilled trades, aerospace technology and AME (aircraft maintenance engineer) probably isn’t the first career that comes to mind. It definitely wasn’t one I knew much about before this episode of Trade Up with Sherry Holmes.

But after getting hands-on with aircraft maintenance engineers, I quickly realized just how much skill, precision and problem-solving goes into keeping an aircraft safe and ready to fly.

As part of my journey with Skills Canada, I headed to VMO Aerospace to learn more about the people who work behind the scenes to keep our planes in the air.

 

A Skilled Trade You Might Not Know About

 

One of the biggest things I took away from this experience is just how many different skills are involved in aircraft maintenance.

I met Jarvis, a former Skills Canada competitor who specializes in structural repairs at VMO Aerospace and Louis, a World Skills coach – who specializes in maintenance – together I learned that this skilled trade offers many in-demand opportunities. Jarvis explained that his structures license is a lot like being an auto body technician — except instead of repairing cars, he works on airplanes.

That comparison really helped me put the trade into perspective.

Aircraft maintenance engineers work on everything from the structure and body of an aircraft to its mechanical systems, making sure every part meets strict safety requirements.

And that’s a pretty big responsibility!

 

RELATED: What I Learned About Auto Body Repair

Getting Hands-On

 

Of course, I couldn’t just stand around and watch. I had to jump in and try things out!

I got the chance to work on a wing-body fairing from a Boeing 737 and an elevator from a De Havilland Dash 8. It was incredible to see some of the components up close and learn how engineers identify and repair damage. Jarvis walked me through a composite repair and rivet repair.

One thing that really stood out to me was how important the aircraft’s exterior surfaces are. Something as simple as keeping a wing smooth and properly maintained plays a critical role in how an aircraft performs in the air.

It made me look at airplanes a little differently the next time I’m sitting in one!

Precision, Problem-Solving and Documentation

 

Aircraft maintenance isn’t a trade where you can simply say, “That looks good enough.”

Everything has to be checked, measured, documented and done properly.

The engineers showed me how they use a tap test to help identify damage, and I learned just how important documentation is throughout the repair process. Every repair needs to be traceable and properly recorded.

That level of precision is something I really appreciate about the skilled trades. You’re constantly problem-solving, learning and making sure the job is done right — because in this industry, safety comes first.

 

RELATED: Sherry Holme on Her Construction Journey

There’s a Whole World of Trades Out There

 

 

One of my biggest takeaways from this experience was realizing how many career opportunities are out there that young people may not even know exist.

When we talk about skilled trades, we often think about construction, electrical, plumbing or welding. But the trades are so much bigger than that.

Aerospace technology and aircraft maintenance combine hands-on work with technology, science, precision and problem-solving. If you love figuring out how things work and want a career where your skills really matter, this could be an incredible path to explore.

 

 

And honestly, I think that’s one of the most exciting things about doing this series — discovering trades I hadn’t considered before and getting a chance to experience them for myself.

 

Trade Up with Sherry Holmes

 

My visit to VMO Aerospace opened my eyes to a whole new side of the skilled trades, and I can’t wait for you to see what I learned.

Head over to my YouTube channel to watch the full Aerospace Technology & Aircraft Maintenance episode of Trade Up with Sherry Holmes.

You’ll see me get hands-on with aircraft components, meet the people working in this industry and learn what it really takes to keep aircraft safe in the skies.

And who knows? Maybe this episode will introduce you to a skilled trade you never knew existed.

Watch the episode and discover where the skilled trades can take you!

 

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