Ben’s Journey: From Apprentice to Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

How did you first join Qantas?

In Year 11, I completed a Certificate II in Aeroskills, a pre-apprenticeship in aircraft maintenance, before starting my journey with Qantas. The Cert II confirmed my interest and eagerness to pursue aircraft maintenance as a career. I then joined Qantas through their apprenticeship program at age 17 in aircraft maintenance and completed my apprenticeship in Brisbane Heavy Maintenance. In Brisbane, I completed my trade and became an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. I was then fortunate to take a position in Perth Line Maintenance with Qantas, where I obtained my licence and transitioned to a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, which is my current role at age 23. A Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME) is a certified engineer authorised to inspect, maintain, repair, and certify aircraft as airworthy.

What made you want to work in Engineering?

I have always really enjoyed problem-solving and working with my hands to fix things. I also had a passion for aviation, so being able to combine both interests made the career choice easy.

What training did you receive when you started, and how did it prepare you for the role?

I started my career with Qantas as an apprentice through their apprenticeship program in Brisbane Heavy Maintenance. I completed the apprenticeship with a block-release learning program, which is a stage-by-stage learning environment consisting of theory and practical training. Completing theory and practical training side by side during the apprenticeship helped reinforce the learning. Training in heavy maintenance was an exceptional introduction to aircraft maintenance as it exposed me to all the aircraft systems and components at a deep level.

Were there any parts of the training that really stood out or surprised you?

Some parts of aircraft maintenance training that stood out were the complexity of the systems and the need to constantly retain detailed information, which was challenging at first but became easier with training.

What’s something about your role that most people don’t know?

The most unknown aspect that most people don’t realise is the amount of maintenance required to keep aircraft flying safely. Another detail about aircraft maintenance is that most aircraft components are checked or replaced on a strict schedule (even if they’re still working perfectly) because aviation doesn’t wait for parts to fail.

Have you had a unique or challenging situation that taught you something valuable?

Every day in this role brings something new, and that’s one of the things I love most about it. The variables are endless, weather, aircraft movements, crew availability, and external factors can all impact operations. Each situation, whether challenging or routine, teaches you to think critically, adapt quickly, and work collaboratively. It’s a continual learning experience that keeps you sharp and engaged.

Have you had the chance to explore other roles or departments within Qantas?

I’ve had the opportunity to explore different areas within engineering outside my role as a Mechanical Engineer. Some of the other engineering departments I’ve been exposed to include Structures, Non Destructive Testing (NDT), Composites, Paint, and Component Maintenance, which has been vital in expanding my knowledge and understanding of aircraft maintenance.

Can you share a moment from your time in the role that you’ll never forget?

Some of the most rewarding parts of my role are being able to repair aircraft safely and on schedule, allowing customers to make it to their destination.

What would you say to someone thinking about working in Engineering?

If you’re considering becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, it’s a career that demands precision, responsibility, and continuous learning, but it also offers immense satisfaction in keeping aviation safe and operational.

What qualities help people succeed in this role?

Comprehensive Systems Knowledge: A deep understanding of aircraft mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and avionics systems is fundamental.

Diagnostic and Troubleshooting Skills: The ability to effectively analyse complex problems, diagnose faults, and develop efficient solutions in short timeframes.

Technical Manual Interpretation: The capacity to read and accurately interpret complex manuals, engineering drawings, wiring diagrams, and structural manuals is a daily necessity.

 Benjamin, Licence Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, Line Maintenance Operations, Perth