The 2024 Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AME) Conference in Ontario showcased an impressive display of skills and expertise as teams competed in various challenging events, with IAM members proving they are among the best in the industry.
The rigorous competitions again included lock wiring, virtual wheel and brake changes, avionics troubleshooting, a 2D virtual paint challenge, non-destructive testing, and sheet metal repair.
Keith Aiken, IAM Canada Airline Coordinator, expressed his excitement: “It was an amazing event, and it’s thrilling to see the skills on display. We’re proud that our IAM teams took two of the top three spots.” IAM teams from Air Transat and Air Canada claimed the first and third places respectively.
The IAM had a strong presence at the conference, with members from various IAM locals actively participating in the Skills Challenge. David Chartrand, IAM Canadian General Vice-President, remarked, “IAM Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are the best in the business, and we’re proud but not surprised they’ve demonstrated that to the world.”
The IAM Canada booth, staffed by many IAM members and staff, attracted a steady flow of interest from AME students and professionals, who engaged in conversations about the future of the aviation industry, unionism, and IAM’s training programs.
The Ontario AME Conference took place from 1-3 October, 2024, at the Delta Hotel and Conference Centre in Mississauga, Ontario.
PHOTO: (From left to right: Front – John Golia, retired IAM member who organised and judged the Skills Competition, Lou Pagrach GLR
Back – Dave Flowers, PDGC of IAM District 140; Mark Pozzobon Shop Committee member, L2323; Jason Jiskra, General Chairperson, District 140, Steve Grigoropoulos Tech Ops Shop Chairmen L2323, Keith Aiken, IAM Canadian Airline Co-ordinator, Sam Jabbar, GLR Assigned to Organising.
