Transitioning into Aviation MRO at Muirhead Avionics
Category: Success Stories
Publish date: 31/07/2023
Muirhead Avionics, Ametek MRO is an industry go-to for avionics services including MRO, sales, modifications, and flight recorder transcription. From its facility in west London, Muirhead Avionics incorporates comprehensive engineering support with exclusive expertise.
The breadth of services offered by Muirhead Avionics’ OEM approved repair facilities, has allowed it to be a major supplier to many fixed and rotary wing operators worldwide for over 70 years. Its capabilities cover navigation, communication, flight data recorders, cockpit voice recorders, instrumentation and test equipment.
Today, we hear from Lee Robertson who has already enjoyed a successful transition from the Armed Forces into Muirhead Avionics:
Hi Lee, can you please introduce yourself and what you do here as an Avionics Technician?
"Hi, my name is Lee Robertson and I spent 22 years in the RAF as an Electronic Ground Radio Technician. I now work at Muirhead Avionics, Ametek MRO as an Avionics Technician within the Radar Department, fixing Wind Shear Radars and the Antennas that go on the front of aircrafts."
What transferable skills from the Armed Forces prepared you for a role at Muirhead Avionics?
"Trade training, discipline, teamwork and punctuality are just some of the traits that working for the military has brought to my new career."
Are you able to use these skills on a daily basis?
"Absolutely. The fact that I’m an experienced engineer really helps me with the technical work. It also helps to know that I have a supportive team around me; if I have any questions or need any help, they’re always there.
"How smooth has the transition been to the commercial world and how has Muirhead Avionics supported you?
"Muirhead have been great. It’s actually a very nice environment to work in and we all get along very well - easily the nicest place I’ve worked at. I’ve had plenty of support and everyone’s been very helpful.
"Overall, the transition has been very smooth. I used to work on much larger equipment, and while radars are quite a bit smaller, many of the same principles apply. Plus, everyone has been more than happy to help and answer any questions.
"The strangest change I’ve experienced is being thanked for my work; at the military you’re expected to do the work and that’s that!"
On that note, thank you very much Lee. Do you see a career path at Ametek?
"Personally, I’m at the end of my career and perhaps less ambitious than others, but there’s plenty of scope for anyone else to progress into positions such as Stamp Holder or Supervisor. It’s a huge, global company, so the possibilities are endless."
What advice would you give someone considering a job in Aviation MRO after leaving the Armed Forces?
"If you think a job looks interesting, give it a go, there’s no harm in trying. You may have skillsets that companies need, so if you think you can do it, give yourself a chance."
Does Ametek MRO have an open mind to innovation and process improvement?
"They’re always open to change. If you think that you can do something in a more efficient way, the company is keen to let you try; whether that’s in the office or in the workshop, they’re always open to suggestions.
"We’re actively recruiting for Avionics Technicians, and you can find out more here."
Alternatively, you can email Philipp Bellessort (Internal Recruiter) and he’ll talk you through the transition.