With 35 years of service passing in the blink of an eye, we’re proud to celebrate the career and retirement of Dave, a dedicated Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME), whose expertise and mentorship has left its lasting mark on Bearskin Airlines.
Dave’s career began on May 11, 1990, when he started an apprenticeship position just two days after completing his Aircraft Maintenance program at Confederation College. Over the years, he worked his way up to become a Crew Chief. Dave remained loyal to not only Bearskin, but also the very same hangar where his career started.
His impact has been far-reaching, having mentored countless apprentices, and students learning the trade. Dave’s experience and his ability to creatively troubleshoot have been invaluable throughout the years, and his contribution will be remembered by all who had the pleasure of working alongside him.
As Dave heads into his next chapter, we had him reflect on his career through a Q&A:
What inspired you to start your career in aircraft maintenance?
I was lifting heavy steel all day in the construction industry and knew that it wouldn’t be a sustainable career, so I decided to pursue something different and found aviation.
Can you share a favourite memory or moment from your time working at Bearskin?
One of my favourite and humorous moments was at Bearskin’s 50th anniversary party, I ate five T-bone steaks with a crowd gathering around me.
What are you most proud of achieving during your career?
I spent many years as the Chief Steward of our union where I helped to negotiate a few agreements with the company.
What will you miss most about coming to work each day?
One of the things I’ll miss most is working with the maintenance team and mentoring junior mechanics.
What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
Spending more time with my family and friends, taking classes at my gym, reading, walking my dog Stanley, and just having the luxury of doing what I want to do at any given time. (We’re envious Dave!)
If you could sum up your experience in one sentence or word, what would it be?
Aviation has been a rewarding career for me. I’ll always remember the great people that I’ve worked with, and the experiences that I’ve had.
What are some last words you’d like to share?
Working as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer has been an awesome experience. I will continue to keep in touch with my colleagues, visit the hanger with doughnuts and attend the annual Christmas party, which I’ve never missed! I can’t believe that 35 years have passed, as I look forward to the next chapter of my life.
We wish Dave all the best as he steps into this exciting new chapter of his life. We hope he enjoys every moment of retirement, being surrounded by loved ones, and doing the things he loves most. Thank you, Dave, for the dedication and experience you’ve shared with us over the years!
