Women in Aviation- Jo

2021

 “…You are the future and the change. Fight for what you believe is right”.

Dear Daughter,

Your mum Jo came to the PTB family in June of 2019. Today she works in the stores department responsible for receiving all parts and engines, as well as any miscellaneous supplies; works to ensure all items are checked and entered into the inventory management system; uses a checklist to ensure components are appropriately labelled and stored, handles all shipments to customers and suppliers, selects parts to be used by either customers or the workshop.

Coming from mixed families, with multiple siblings decades younger than herself, Jo grew up in the beautiful city of Auckland, New Zealand- “it was relaxed. We sometimes had 4 seasons in one day!”.

In school Jo loved art and graphics, but was not particularly fond of typing- can you relate? Funny how most of your days are now spent tapping away at a keyboard- learning to type isn’t so much a subject but a mandatory requirement now. While Jo enjoyed school she wants to note with great emphasis

“School isn’t for everyone but can help in other areas. You don’t need to be an academic wiz to survive in the big wide world. You can still make something of yourself without a degree”.

Upon leaving school Jo, now 18 became a receptionist at Long John Silver (fish n chip chain) at the head office. With no Seek or Indeed around then, Jo responded to an ad in the local paper. Through multiple careers across both New Zealand and Australia, Jo has always ensured that she maintain a work/life balance. This is your key to a happy life. “I leave work at work and enjoy my free time with family and friends. At least one day during the weekend is spent taking in nature”.

Having entered an industry traditionally seen as male dominated Jo observes that she feels there are more subjects and opportunities within the education system which have allowed girls & women to have greater options to choose from and try. She encourages not just you, but all women “to not be afraid to interact and engage with others of all walks. We are all people with lives outside the workplace. We are all human.

In this way Jo also comments that PTB considers all genders in hiring no matter what area it may be- workshop, sales, finance and admin.

“I am new to aviation and from what I currently see it is a very male dominated industry and it is refreshing to see that this is changing”.

Jo states that she is most grateful for the knowledge of the past which helps navigate the future. “Each day is a new beginning”. “You must believe in yourself and ensure that all that you give out is valuable”

Finally, daughter…

“be strong and confident in all that you do. Don’t hold back. You are the future and the change. Fight for what you believe is right”.