Taking Flight

How aircraft mechanics like Elise Krause help you travel safely

November 2024

by Alex Lim-Chua Wee

Your bags are packed. You’re in your seat. Your flight is getting ready to take off, until . . . the pilot says it can’t leave yet. There’s a problem with the engine. Oh no!

Thankfully, people like Elise Krause, 23, are ready to help. She’s an aircraft mechanic. From fixing engines to replacing seat belts, Elise helps make sure you get where you need to be—safely.

We asked her about her important job.

What’s a typical day like for you?

I wake up at 3 a.m. and head to work. After our morning meeting, I go out to any planes that need a PDC, or pre-departure check. If everything looks good, I sign them off as ready to fly. On average, I work on up to 6 planes a day.

Did you always want to be an aircraft mechanic?

As a kid, I loved playing with K’NEX toys and building little machines. When I was 18, I got a job working on cars. After a while, my boss said I might really enjoy working on planes. So I went to trade school at the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics.

What was that like?

It was really cool because everything was so hands-on. I learned about how flight works—and did a lot of math! I also worked on building aircraft, which included taking an engine apart and putting it back together.

Courtesy of Elise Krause

A Bold Move
Elise moved all the way from Maryland to Hawaii for her job! On her days off, she loves to snorkel, hike, and go diving.

How did you find your current job?

I used LinkedIn. It’s a website that allows you to connect with other people in your industry. One person I messaged worked for an airline in Hawaii. I asked him if they were hiring. I got an interview . . . and the job!

What do you love most about your work?

I’m a high-energy person. It’s good for me to be outside, running around fixing things.

What might people be surprised to learn about your job?

You don’t have to be a big strong guy to fix a plane. Being tinier can be an advantage too! You may need to squeeze into a spot to make a repair.

What advice would you give kids about finding a job they love?

Always ask for what you want. The worst thing that someone can tell you is no.