I got started in the airport operations sector as a loader for Air New Zealand, based in Wellington. I had been working in an office environment and was looking for a challenge.
The chance to work outdoors was one factor that appealed to me. I’m now a loading supervisor, overseeing the team that ensures baggage, cargo and passengers are safely loaded onto aircraft.
One of the things I enjoy about working for Air New Zealand is the people I work with and the different attributes they bring to the job. From planning a flight, to baggage make-up through to actually loading a plane, it’s all about planning, communication and working as a team.
I knew absolutely nothing about the tarmac
When I first started, I knew absolutely nothing about the tarmac or the vast amount of equipment used when servicing aircraft. The majority of my training was done on the job and it has proved invaluable. I can now push back aircraft, sign off Loading Instruction Reports and use equipment most people would never get a chance to use. The best advice I was given by a trainer was “be aware of your surroundings”, which I live by when working.
I love my job and I get to work with a lot of people from different departments. No two days are the same so working in this sector isn’t for the faint hearted and it does involve a lot of lifting. But if you think you can handle a challenge then this is a really good place to start. You will learn a lot within the first year and the training never stops.
Find out more about ServiceIQ's Aviation qualifications here.
For more information, please contact ServiceIQ on 0800 863 693 or email intel@ServiceIQ.org.nz
