I have always had a fascination with aeroplanes and the perceived freedom of flying. This interest led me to get my private pilot’s licence while I was in high school so I could enter the Air Force. My mother, however, mailed me a newspaper cutting for Air Traffic Control training. I applied for the program and got accepted about 32 years ago and as they say – the rest is history!
I don’t often reflect on the study I completed or what I learnt, but rather the people I trained alongside. I still have strong ties with them and keep in touch. Some of them, like me, are still a part of the Air Traffic Control sector.
I jumped in and out of control towers and radars centres throughout New Zealand. During my time within the operational environment, I was always instructing in some way or another. I have no specific memories that stand out, however, working with students who have had significant hurdles to overcome and have succeeded are memorable, you don’t forget those moments.
I was approached by our Manager of Training, Kelly de Lambert, and offered the opportunity to join the team. As I could no longer work as an operational controller due to medical reasons, this role was the perfect fit. It allowed me to continue working in the air traffic control sector and continue the rewarding experience of training students
I have had the privilege of teaching students from over 10 countries and have been able to deliver courses in Kuwait, Vietnam, and the UAE. Students with good personalities, willingness to learn and overcome challenges are enjoyable to instruct. Often finding ways to help these students succeed by adapting my training to their cultural needs and individual students’ learning style leaves an impression.
I spent some time thinking about this as I thought this was an important question. My three pieces of advice, from my own experience, would be:
In New Zealand, we’re currently encouraged to work from home if we can, which I’ve been doing. Seeing how this is possible with the sophisticated technology we have now, like our AKO virtual courses, I wouldn’t be surprised if our airspace is controlled remotely by people at home on secure networks. No matter what happens due to the nature of aviation, you must be flexible with however it evolves and try to stay ahead of the curve.
As the world moves into a post-Covid environment, you’ll see me travelling, on or in the water, or spending time with friends and family.
