Welcome to Stories from the Runway. The Beacon series in which we sit down with aviation professionals and talk through the ins and outs of the industry.

Today, we talk with American Airlines mechanic, Christopher. He’s got a peculiar start in aviation industry: “Had it not been for my wife, who pressured me into pursuing my career in the aviation industry, I’d still be in the sales field struggling to make my sales goals.” Family was definitively crucial for Christopher’s start. Not only his wife is related to it, but also his father.

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“My dad was a car mechanic and my first word was ‘car’. For years I wanted to follow in his steps and for me to say I’m a certified airframe and powerplant aircraft technician is such an accomplishment”

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When asked about what makes his work special, Christopher chooses the fact that every night, there’s something different that needs to be done. And no matter what the job is, it can only be accomplished by combining two inseparable attributes:

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“Whether it’s a tire change or removing and replacing a flow control valve, every job requires passion and technique.”

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Although this career demands accurate precision and rigorous technique, Christopher also highlights the collaboration aspects of his work. “I love meeting new coworkers and learning from their cultures. We get to work with different groups every day, which brings the opportunity to build ever lasting relationships and friendships.“

Passion, technique, teamwork. No doubt these are some of the utmost qualities needed to keep aircraft flying.