Mechanical aptitude + hands-on training = career opportunity

By Rebecca Bell
Dean of Community Relations & Special Events

Trey Thompson always loved working with his hands and repairing things. After spending four years in California, stationed at Camp Pendleton in the U.S. Marines Corps' 1st Division, he moved to Midland because his father had been transferred to the Tall City from Wyoming.

“I grew up in Wyoming and am an avid fisherman,” said Thompson. “Midland doesn’t have the outdoor activities like Wyoming; however, there is a much better job market here.”

In 2003 Thompson began working as an automobile mechanic in Midland and realized that he had a knack for mechanical work. Using financial assistance from the U. S. Veteran’s Assistance program, Thompson enrolled in Midland College’s (MC) aviation maintenance program in 2008.

“People don’t take very good care of cars,” explained Thompson. “Planes, on the other hand, are usually well-maintained, and I enjoy keeping them in proper working condition. When something is the matter with an aircraft, it usually poses more of a challenge, and I enjoy diagnosing and finding the problem.”

Thompson completed both MC’s powerplant and airframe aviation maintenance certificates. He wanted to get both credentials in order to be more marketable as an aircraft mechanic. Even with spending the extra time to earn two certificates, he still was able to finish all the required work in just 18 months!

Thompson said, “I found that aviation maintenance came pretty easy to me. The instructors in MC’s program have all worked in the industry for a long time, and they really know the material. They are able to provide students with real world, hands-on training because they have worked as airframe and powerplant mechanics themselves”

After completing the MC program, Thompson began working as a mechanic for Deer Horn Aviation Ltd. Co. in Midland. In December 2011, he joined Empire Airlines as a line mechanic at the Midland International Airport. The Midland office is one of the many Empire locations that handle all of the flight crews, maintenance and parts for Federal Express. In the fall, Thompson will transfer to Empire’s office in Anchorage, Alaska.

“My wife Yvonne and I have loved living in Midland,“ said the 33-year-old aircraft mechanic. “We met each other here through mutual friends and have been married for 5 ½ years. We also love outdoor activities, and Anchorage is a beautiful place. I think we will enjoy the change.”

“I owe a lot to Midland,” reminisced Thompson. “I met my wife here and I received training at Midland College for a career that I love. Now, I’m looking forward to the opportunities ahead.”

Trey Thompson stands by one of the Federal Express planes that he services through Empire Airlines