Surprisingly STEM: Aerospace Technician

TL;DR

Craig Tretheway shares his journey from motorcycle technician to aerospace engineering technician, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and continuous learning.

Transcript

Probably most of my life I've been interested in working with my hands, taking things apart, putting things back together, owning motorcycles with my father, working on motorcycles. That led me to moving to America. I can walk right outside of my front door when there's a rocket launch and just watch it go up. And I never thought for a second th... Read More

Key Insights

• 🏍️ Craig Tretheway transitioned from a motorcycle technician to an aerospace engineering technician through continuous learning and perseverance.
• 🤗 The aerospace industry offers opportunities for individuals with a passion for working with their hands and a willingness to learn.
• ✈️ Specialized tasks in aerospace engineering, like filling NORS and COTS tanks, require precision and cleanliness due to the nature of flight hardware.
• 💦 Working in aerospace engineering demands a balance between having fun and seriousness when it comes to ensuring safety for astronauts.
• 🧑‍🔬 Pursuing a career in aerospace engineering does not necessarily require being a rocket scientist, with practical skills being valuable in the industry.
• ❓ Networking and seeking out opportunities are essential for individuals aspiring to enter the aerospace industry.
• 💦 Craig's advice to never give up and keep working towards one's dream resonates with the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in aerospace engineering.

Questions & Answers

Q: What does Craig Tretheway's role as an aerospace engineering technician entail?

Craig supports the International Space Station by providing breathing air through specialized tanks like NORS and COTS tanks, ensuring astronauts have a safe environment to work in.

Q: How did Craig transition from being a motorcycle technician to an aerospace engineering technician?

Craig pursued further education after working in a motorcycle dealership for ten years, eventually landing a job in aerospace engineering through networking and perseverance.

Q: What advice does Craig offer to those aspiring to enter the aerospace industry?

Craig advises aspiring individuals to pursue their dreams, emphasizing that success in the aerospace industry is achievable with dedication and a willingness to learn.

Q: What skills are transferable from jobs like motorcycle or car technician to aerospace engineering?

Skills like working with hands and problem-solving from jobs like motorcycle or car technician roles are transferable to aerospace engineering, emphasizing practical knowledge and perseverance.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Craig Tretheway, an aerospace engineering technician, supports the International Space Station by providing breathing air.

• He fills specialized tanks like NORS and COTS tanks, as well as Personal Breatheable Air bottles for astronauts.

• Craig's journey involved transitioning from a motorcycle technician to pursuing a new career in aerospace engineering.