Thursday, March 28, 2024

Alumni Spotlight with Brad

Where and when were you born?

 I was born in Gander, NL.

What is your current job and list some things you like about it?

My current job is GM, MRO (should spell this out) Operations of the Jazz Technical Services Heavy Maintenance Facility in Halifax NS. I like being involved in the maintenance of aircraft; watching aircraft undergo specialized heavy maintenance and modifications; followed by the feeling of achievement when we return the aircraft back to the customer. Another thing I enjoy is meeting new people. Being the manager allows me to introduce myself to outside customers as well as being involved in the hiring of new employees.  

How does it relate to your diploma or certificate?

In order to be directly involved and know the operation, you need the aviation background on how it all works together to create the system. As an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, I gained valuable experience working on the aircraft where I could apply my skills into leadership roles and mentor upcoming engineers.

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever done in your lifetime?

Currently, I would say the hardest thing I’ve ever done is making the decision to become a Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. That critical moment when you graduate from high school and you’re at the pivotal point where you need to make a career / life decision.  

What’s your favourite place in the world?

My favorite place in the world has to be my hometown of Fogo Island, NL.

Can you describe an experience that changed your life?

After completing my post-secondary education in Gander, NL, I ventured out into the world on my own. Exploring what opportunities were available to me. Leaving my hometown to find work in a new strange city, I ventured towards Nova Scotia to find new opportunities.  

What’s your favourite movie or book?

Book – Death on the ice … Movie – Top Gun

Is your current career path as you originally intended?

Yes – 100 per cent!

What challenges did you face in launching your career?

Once I graduated from the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering program, it was when 9/11 changed the aviation world. Several of my peers chose different career paths; gave up on aviation. I decided to keep pushing myself, continued to look for opportunities and stayed with the industry when it was at its weakest.

What advice would you give to your CNA first-year self?

If you’re going to play hard, you need to work hard.

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Ryanne McIsaac
Ryanne McIsaac
Born and raised in Stephenville, NL, Ryanne recently moved back to Newfoundland after spending 16 years in Calgary, Alberta. Ryanne has a Journalism Diploma from College of the North Atlantic and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Cape Breton University. She worked for many years as a reporter and freelance writer. She is happy to be back in her hometown and working for CNA.

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