From RAF Airframe Technician to Lead Technical Operations Engineer

What began with a motorcycle, led to a 787 Dreamliner. Explore Neil’s journey to Boeing.

Neil Walker

Boeing Lead Technical Operations Engineer

Neil is integral to maintaining our 787 Dreamliners. His story is as unique as the skills and experience he brings to Boeing.

I discovered an interest in engineering at age 12 by dismantling motorcycles.

"At first, I was really great at taking apart pieces, but I wasn’t so clever at putting them back together again. My father was an accomplished engineer in his own right and coached me. Eventually, I was reassembling motorcycles and they’d actually run. Even better? When I didn’t have any pieces left at the end of the job."

Served 6.5 years in the Royal Air Force and trained as an airframe technician.

"My older brother was a pilot in the Air Force – and when I was younger – he used to take me to the stations and I could go around the squadrons and look at the aeroplanes. I found them fascinating."

Worked 30 years at BMI (British Midland) – from licensed mechanic to senior engineer.

"After 25 years, I met the company chairman and was presented with a gold watch for my service. That moment stands out. But each day had the potential to be memorable. Every time I saw an aeroplane taxi out, I could take pride in it getting into the air safely and on-time."

Built 3 houses as a hobby (and about to start the 4th).

"It’s a passion of mine. And I’ve done it literally from the ground up – from the design and floor plans to a lot of the electrical and plumbing. Of course, each time you move in, you start thinking about the things you’d do differently next time."

Moved to Boeing nearly 4 years ago to help fuel their expansion.

"Aviation is a significant industry in the UK, and Boeing’s presence here is important, investing almost two billion pounds a year. We’ve got a lot of exciting times to look forward to."

I help run a 24-hour, year-round 787 Dreamliner hub.

"We manage all aspects of maintenance for the 787 Dreamliners from our workspace, which we affectionately call the Goldfish Bowl. It’s the heart of the operation. One of the most rewarding aspects is to be able to leave the Goldfish Bowl at night knowing that everything has flown on-time and safely."