Testimonials

This article first appeared on the TOPick.com on 13 July, 2023.

While waiting for Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (DSE) results to be announced, graduates often start to think about their futures, including suitable programmes of further studies which are aligned with their interests and strengths. Godfrey Cheung, who has always been keen on mechanical engineering, chose to enrol in the Diploma in Aviation Operations (DAO) offered by the Hong Kong International Aviation Academy (HKIAA). A programme which links internships with classroom learning, the DAO enabled Godfrey unlock his potential in mechanical engineering, preparing him for further studies to pursue a career in aircraft engineering.

Developing Expertise through Knowledge Application

Godfrey is aware that honing professional skills are essential for seizing job market opportunities. He first learned about the DAO programme through a friend’s recommendation. He was drawn to the unique course structure which allows him to study while gaining practical experience in the 12-month paid internship. He was able to acquire new skills and uncover the career path that suited him.

“The programme begins with a month of classroom learning, during which we are taught the foundational knowledge about the aviation industry. Site visits to the placement companies are also arranged for us to get a better understanding of the job functions, career prospects, and working environments before deciding on our placements,” Godfrey shared. “I still remember my first visit to Hong Kong Aero Engine Services Limited (HAESL), where I was introduced to the specialised field of engine maintenance. What surprised me was that aircraft maintenance could be done in an air-conditioned environment!”  Motivated by his interest in engineering parts and encouraged by the safe working environment, Godfrey was successfully placed in an aircraft engine maintenance job as his first choice for the 12-month internship. 

Mastering Precision with a Detail-Oriented Mind

As a Tradesman Trainee in the Component Service Department, Godfrey’s responsibility includes verifying fan blade data after conducting non-destructive testing (C-Scan). “The engines we service have 22 fan blades. The number of blades varies depending on the engine model. During maintenance, the Engine Overhaul Team removes the blades and sends them to our team for cleaning and inspection. After cleaning, we carefully check for any damage, and if damage is detected, the blades are sent to skilled technicians for repair,” Godfrey explained. 

Godfrey’s department is responsible for detecting any deep cracks or damages within the blades which are invisible to the naked eye, using precise and advanced ultrasonic testing technologies during C-Scan imaging. “While the task may seem straightforward, it demands a massive amount of specialised knowledge and skills. Daily inspection requires patience, prudence, keen observation, and even physical stamina that needs to be learnt step by step in order to accumulate valuable experience,” Godfrey added.

After six months of practical training, Godfrey progressed from requiring close mentor supervision to independently verifying blade data. He frankly admitted he learnt and improved a lot in the process, thanks to the support of his friendly mentors and colleagues, who are always guiding him through inspection procedures and damage assessment. Even when he encountered things he did not understand in the Engine Manual, the mentors would patiently explain the details to him.

Besides a workplace supervisor, the HKIAA also provides each student with an academy supervisor for the duration they are in the DAO programme. Workplace supervisors oversee students’ performance and address work-related issues, while academy supervisors act as life coaches assisting students define their learning objectives, offering career guidance.

Pursuing Higher Qualifications to Strengthen Aviation Knowledge

In addition to aircraft engineering, the DAO programme offers placement opportunities in fields such as customer or ground handling services, ramp or flight operations services, air cargo, and aviation security. This diverse range of options allows students to undertake a 12-month placement tailored to their interests and skills, reflecting the programme’s philosophy of “Learn, Earn and Work”.

While work experience is undeniably important, professional knowledge is also key to career advancement. Upon successfully completing the DAO programme and the 12-month job placement, graduates receive a recognised qualification equivalent to Level 3 of the Hong Kong Qualification Framework (QF3). This enables them to pursue further studies in the HKIAA’s part-time Professional Diploma in Aviation Management (PDAM), other associate degrees, or higher diploma programmes, paving their ways to a bachelor’s degree and lifelong learning.

Not only has the 12 months of paid placement strengthened Godfrey’s foundational knowledge of aircraft engineering, it helped him identify his strengths and passions. As he graduated the DAO programme, Godfrey’s potential and skills were recognised by his placement company he was offered a full-time position as a technician. He now plans to pursue a mechanical engineering-related higher diploma and obtain relevant licences and professional qualifications, ultimately fulfilling his goals of career in aircraft engineering.