Diary of an Apprentice: Lorie Kevau
February 8, 2023
As we enter the new year, we take the opportunity to meet yet another apprentice as he progresses and develops his skills at Jet Aviation. Lorie Kevau is an apprentice with Cairns’ structures team.
Firstly, what inspired you to work at Jet Aviation?
My inspiration to work at Jet Aviation initially started when someone from the then-Hawker Pacific visited my high school when I was in Year 10 and spoke about what it was like to work in Aviation. I then signed up for a Certificate II in Aeroskills which included many visits to the Cairns MRO hangar during the course of my high school study. These visits to the hangar gave me a glimpse of the aviation industry and working environment.
Why the Structures team?
After completing a Mechanical Certificate IIII in Aircraft Maintenance, my initial application at Jet Aviation was for a Mechanical apprenticeship however, I was offered a structural position and after careful consideration and a great day of work experience, I decided to go for it. I have been happy with that decision since!
What is your job like?
The structures role focuses on the maintenance of the aircraft body/structure and composite work. It consists of tasks such as blending and treating corroded and damaged aircraft structures, fabrication of patches and structures, replacing structural fasteners and repairing any structural damage. Working in the aviation industry has been awesome. I get to learn new things every day and my colleagues are friendly and helpful.
Which aspects do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy getting tasked with hands-on jobs and jobs that I have not done before because it allows me to learn new skills. I also get to work with friendly people from all across the world.
What is the most challenging?
For me the most challenging part of my job was getting my head around computers and paperwork. It took a little time to get used to but I eventually figured it out.
Was there anything that surprised you about the job?
Studying for both my Certificate II and Certificate IV at Aviation Australia gave me a good feel for and understanding on what the role would be like. I guess it surprised me how much I am enjoying the structures side after I initially started in mechanical.
What is it like being an apprentice at your age?
I have always wanted to go into trade rather than go off to University. I am 20 years old and I am in the early stages of my career so it is great to be able to get along with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and experience levels in the hangar.
How does it feel choosing a different route than other people at your age?
I have always wanted to go down a trade path, not necessarily always Aviation. Some of my friends have apprenticeships as Electricians or Concreters, but my apprenticeship is a really cool and unique opportunity.
What advice do you have for someone starting an apprenticeship?
My advice for someone starting an apprenticeship would be to always ask for help if you’re stuck on something. Trying to fix something you’re unsure of can make the situation worse. Also, look at all aspects and areas within the aviation industry, you may be surprised with what other options are out there.
Where do you see yourself in a few years’ time?
In a few years’ time, I would like to think that I'd be finishing of my structural apprenticeship at Jet Aviation Cairns. I’m enjoying the work environment at Jet Aviation, and I would like to spend as much of my career here as I can. I could also see myself traveling and working across the world as a Structures Engineer one day after I have finished my apprenticeship.
Can you share with us a little about what you do outside of work?
Outside of work I like to play friendly volleyball games on some Friday and Saturday nights. I also like to play Sunday cricket games on the rare occasion.
Thank you Lorie, and all the best to your career in aviation!