As International Women’s Day approaches, it’s the perfect time to spotlight the trailblazing women working behind the scenes in industries that keep the world moving. At Harbour Air, Erika, Manager of Maintenance, plays a crucial role in ensuring every seaplane in the fleet is in top condition, keeping passengers safe as they travel between Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Seattle, and beyond.
From overseeing complex aircraft maintenance to breaking barriers in aviation, Erika’s story is one of leadership, expertise, and passion for the skies. In this Q&A, she shares what it takes to keep Harbour Air running smoothly, how she carved her path in a male-dominated field, and her advice for women looking to take off in aviation. —Noa Nichol
What inspired you to pursue a career in aviation maintenance, and how did you get started in the field?
It was a very fortunate happenstance. I saw an ad in a newspaper for a position in aircraft technical records (yes, looking for jobs in a newspaper was still a thing back then!). One of my neighbours worked in flight operations at Harbour Air and I asked her about the company – she raved about it. She was also kind enough to offer to drop off my resume and put in a good word for me, and I received an interview. After the interview, I was excited about the position and the company, so I kept phoning to follow up and tell them so. I only got through once – and was given the job! After I had worked there for a few months, they told me that one of the things they liked about me was how keen I was about the role. When I asked what they meant, they said “well you called us so many times after the interview!”. I was a bit embarrassed… call display was rare in those days!
As the Manager of Maintenance at Harbour Air, what does a typical day look like for you?
One of the many great things about my role, and working in aviation, is that every day is different. I have the privilege to work with many areas of the company: Maintenance, Structures, Paint, Technical Records, Quality Assurance, Engineering, Technical Writing, Health and Safety, Operational Control Center, Front Counter, Commercial, Customer Care and Experience, Sales and Marketing, Finance, People and Culture, Dock Operations, IT, and Air Crew, not to mention our valued 3rd party customers. The only constant in each day is that everyone works together to provide the safest and highest quality experience and product for our customers.
Aviation is still a male-dominated industry—what challenges have you faced as a woman in this field, and how have you overcome them?
No matter who you are, in life, there will always be individuals who question you and your decisions, no matter how spectacular you are at what you do, how correct the decisions you make are for you, your coworkers, your company or your life. Be cautious in choosing the people who you listen to, and even more so those you allow to sway you from your course of action. The advisors you choose over the course of your life are perhaps some of the most important choices you will make – choose those who are invested in your success and wellbeing.
What is the most rewarding part of your job, and what keeps you passionate about aviation maintenance?
My coworkers and our customers. We are lucky enough to have attracted a crew of highly talented individuals who are experts in their respective fields. Having the opportunity to work alongside and learn from so many people who work in so many different areas of aviation, is simply incredible. I have gained a phenomenal amount of knowledge from each of them, and it is an honour to work with such an amazing group of professionals who are passionate about aviation. Our customers entrust us not only with their friends and family, but to arrive safely and on time for their most important life and work events. We connect people with friends and family and link communities together forging strong connections. I can think of a no worthier pursuit.
How has Harbour Air supported women in aviation, and what steps do you think the industry can take to encourage more women to enter this field?
We have all worked very hard to create an incredibly diverse and supportive group of individuals who come from all different backgrounds and possess different perspectives and experiences. Still, within the industry we must focus on direct exposure of underrepresented groups to become aware, interested and supported to pursue careers in aviation. Working with groups like Elevate Aviation (https://elevateaviation.ca/) who focus on exposing the next generation (including women) to aviation, providing mentorship and training is essential. The industry needs to focus on youths and their teachers to continue to educate and inspire.
Have there been any standout moments or milestones in your career that you’re particularly proud of?
There are too many to be able to pick just one, but every single one of them relates to the people who work here. I am incredibly proud to be a part of such a talented group of experts who foster an environment of constant learning, growth, and support of one another to achieve unbelievable accomplishments.
What advice would you give to young women who are interested in pursuing a career in aviation maintenance or other technical trades?
To me, finding mentors and groups to support you are a key ingredient in any field you choose to pursue. Find coworkers and companies who compliment you, who you resonate with and work well with, and then you can never be led astray. You might make mistakes, or venture down a side quest, but you will always have solid people at your back helping to prevent and minimize challenges, and who will help you up and dust you off when you stumble or fall.
International Women’s Day is all about celebrating women’s achievements—what does this day mean to you personally?
Removing barriers. Aviation is an incredibly change-oriented, forward-thinking industry which is constantly developing, improving and removing barriers. Aviation helps open the world to people through travel, creates exciting new technologies and experiences, and exposes us to incredible learning opportunities. This industry has accomplished much, but we must continue to focus on areas that still possess stumbling blocks, such as underrepresented groups and inspiring the next generation to join aviation.
What do you see for the future of women in aviation, and how can more women be encouraged to step into leadership roles like yours?
The future of women in aviation is incredibly bright. Globally, aviation is facing a severe shortage of skilled workers that is only going to become more acute in the coming decades. The only way to address this immense issue is to focus on attracting underrepresented groups in aviation and ensuring they have been given the knowledge and support to create the world of tomorrow. I cannot wait to see what amazing things women in aviation will achieve and create in the future. I do know for certain; the entire aviation industry will be far better for it.
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