Plane mechanics are the unsung heroes of the aviation trade. They guarantee planes are secure, dependable, and able to soar.
For over a decade, Riadel Manzano has devoted her profession to this demanding and rewarding area.
A Childhood Dream Takes Flight
Rising up in East Williston, New York, Riadel usually watched planes flying overhead. “I was always fascinated by how they worked,” she remembers. “I wanted to understand the systems and mechanics behind something so powerful.” That curiosity formed her profession path.
After graduating from W. T. Clarke Excessive College in 2005, Riadel attended Vaughn Faculty of Aeronautics and Know-how. She earned a level in Aviation Upkeep and her Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. As one of many few girls in her program, Riadel confronted challenges. “It wasn’t always easy,” she admits. “But I was determined to prove that I belonged in this industry.”
Constructing Abilities and Incomes Recognition
Riadel began her profession at Horizon Regional Airways in Albany. She spent 4 years honing her abilities in engine diagnostics, avionics troubleshooting, and airframe repairs. “Those early years were about learning as much as I could,” she says. “I wanted to build a strong foundation.”
In 2015, she joined Northeast Commuter Airways as a Upkeep Specialist. Her work concerned tackling extra complicated duties, and her consideration to element earned her recognition. In 2016, she acquired the “Excellence in Aircraft Safety” award. “Safety is at the core of everything we do,” Riadel explains. “One small oversight can have huge consequences.”
Mentoring and Paving the Method
Since 2018, Riadel has labored as a Senior Plane Mechanic at Skyline Airways, based mostly at LaGuardia Airport. Her function entails fixing intricate upkeep issues, making certain planes meet strict security requirements, and mentoring junior mechanics. “Helping the next generation of mechanics is one of my favorite parts of the job,” she says. “It’s rewarding to pass on what I’ve learned.”
Riadel can be enthusiastic about encouraging range in aviation. Ladies make up lower than 3% of plane mechanics within the U.S. She’s working to vary that by mentoring younger girls and selling STEM schooling. “Representation matters,” she says. “I want girls to see that they can thrive in this field.”
The trade is evolving, and Riadel is worked up about what’s subsequent. Hybrid and electrical plane are rising applied sciences that can form the way forward for aviation. “It’s an exciting time to be in this field,” she says. “There’s so much to learn and adapt to.”
Life Past the Hangar
When she’s not working, Riadel enjoys constructing mannequin airplanes and exploring aviation museums. She additionally loves mountaineering and touring, usually combining these passions to go to locations with wealthy aviation histories.
Wanting forward, Riadel has massive plans. She hopes to specialise in hybrid plane upkeep and create a scholarship program to assist aspiring feminine mechanics. “I want to give back to an industry that’s given me so much,” she says.
Her recommendation for anybody contemplating a profession in aviation? “Be curious and persistent,” she says. “It’s not always easy, but the rewards are worth it. The sky is truly the limit.”
Riadel’s journey is one among ardour, willpower, and a dedication to creating the skies safer for everybody. Via her work and advocacy, she’s inspiring others to goal excessive and dream massive.
