McKenzie recently took his first career steps into the world of aviation at Tauranga Airport. His journey to date has been filled with many exciting firsts. His aviation path began in 2023 when he attended JNP Aviation Training’s Secondary Schools Open Day. Inspired by what he saw, McKenzie enrolled in our inaugural Aviation Ground Handling Micro-credential for Secondary Schools, sparking his growing interest in the industry. He experienced firsthand the workings of the airport terminal, ramp operations, and visiting Air Traffic Control and Rescue Fire, exposing him to a wide array of career opportunities in aviation.
Before the course, I had no idea there were so many roles within the aviation industry.
With a deepening passion for aviation, McKenzie returned to JNP Aviation Training in 2024 to complete the Ground Handling (Level 3) Ramp Operations Strand. After graduating later that year, he secured a role in Aircraft Cleaning for ATR and Q300 aircraft, taking one more step toward his goal of working in Air Traffic Control. Meanwhile he is keen to train and widen his Ramp Operations role.
Being around aviation and showing enthusiasm really helps in getting that first role. Completing the Gateway and Certificate courses also showed my commitment and real interest in the industry.
McKenzie’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. He was selected for a spot on the JNP Aviation Training Leadership in Aviation Micro-credential course, joining a group of experienced Ramp Managers and Team Leaders from across New Zealand. Through this course, McKenzie gained valuable leadership skills, both for the workplace and beyond. Seeing the team through the eyes of a Team Leader gave him fresh insights into what makes an effective team member, further fueling his ambitions.
Mckenzie loved the hand-on approach to learning. Using JNP Aviation's Training Aircraft (ATR/72) provides a unique opportunity to keep practicing and to simulate common scenarios. Having access to staff already in the role to provide feedback an tips is really useful. Learning what to do early on and then being able to say why it's done that way is part of the learning curve.
