Aeropath leader shapes global standards in Procedure Design
Jackie Workman has had an impressive career spanning over 16 years in procedure design for Aeropath, specialising in Instrument Flight Procedures (IFPs). Her extensive experience in procedure design for Aeropath has not only shaped her career, but also supported the wider aviation industry through her involvement with the ICAO Instrument Flight Procedures Panel (IFPP).
As the New Zealand Member of the IFPP and Rapporteur of the Helicopter Working Group, Jackie plays a critical role in influencing international standards and practices. This involvement is particularly significant for Aeropath, enabling the organisation to stay ahead of regulatory changes and implement leading-edge procedures that enhance aviation safety and efficiency.
Laying the foundation for an aviation focused future
Jackie’s journey began at the Civil Aviation Division of the Ministry of Transport in 1986, where she started as a draughting cadet. Jackie recalls, “They were crying out for draughting cadets, selling the role to me, hoping I would accept, and I did.” This early experience laid the foundation for her future in aviation.
In 1987, the Ministry of Transport’s Civil Aviation Division became a State Owned Enterprise, transitioning into Airways Corporation. As a draughts person she drew IFPs by hand, using traditional tools like drawing boards and ink pens. “The procedure designers gave us the speed and track requirements for a design and completed the paperwork; essentially, the draftees did the rest,” Jackie explains.
After gaining her NZCE in Civil Engineering Jackie ventured into private industry, working on significant projects like the engineering design of the new library at the Civic Centre in Wellington. Economic fluctuations led her back to Airways in 1995, and she became a Procedure Designer in 2008.
Jackie’s role at Aeropath involves designing Instrument Flight Procedures, a critical aspect of aviation safety and efficiency. She says that there isn’t a typical day in her job – “Safety is the number one priority for us; everything we do has a safety aspect.”
Her work also involves staying updated with new technology and improved design criteria, which gradually embed efficiencies over time.
Shaping global aviation standards
Jackie’s involvement as the New Zealand Member of the IFPP and Rapporteur of the Helicopter Working Group has allowed the organisation to be at the forefront of changes in criteria used for procedure design in New Zealand. “Being ahead of the game, we’re able to keep our team abreast of any changes coming up,” she notes.
She recently travelled to Toulouse to attend an IFPP meeting. She highlights the importance of meeting new people and catching up with old acquaintances. Despite the low number of female participants, Jackie is encouraged by the increasing number of passionate younger members joining the IFPP.
Inspiring growth: a commitment to training and mentorship
Jackie is also involved in training as an on-job training instructor for Aeropath procedure designers. She finds motivation in seeing people improve, grow and succeed. “This motivates me to help by imparting my knowledge, standards, and work ethic in different ways,” she says.
Jackie’s journey from a draughting cadet to a senior leader in procedure design is a testament to her dedication and passion for the aviation industry. Her story is one of perseverance, continuous learning, and a commitment to safety and efficiency in aviation.
