In an industry often considered masculine, we invite you to embark on a journey with us as we uncover the story of Eddah Waweru, a Lead Engineer at Magnetic Line, based in Mombasa, Kenya. Join us in discovering the roots of her passion for aviation and exploring the unique qualities that helped her thrive in the industry.
How did your aviation career start?
My aviation career was sparked by curiosity and started way back when I was still young at my primary school level. I had so many questions concerning the planes that needed answers to satisfy my curiosity, hence aviation had to be the path for me.
I completed my primary and secondary school level and joined aviation school. There I enrolled in an aeronautical engineering (Airframes and Engines) course and my aviation career commenced.
What was your experience prior to joining Magnetic Line, a member of Magnetic Group?
I graduated from aviation school in 2013. Finding a company where you can gain experience is a challenge by itself, especially as a female in a rather masculine industry. It wasn’t that smooth, but I appreciate the challenges that came along the path, they made me stronger.
After aviation school, I was opportune to work as an intern at Kenya Airways base hangar and left at the end of my attachment period. After that I joined Fly 540 and MAF base maintenance at Wilson airport as an attaché.
How did you come to join Magnetic Line?
Later in 2015, I thought it was time for a change. Why not try applying for internships at various companies in JKIA to gain line maintenance experience since I have been doing base maintenance.
Lucky me, Magnetic Line offered me an opportunity as an intern. Due to the local authority regulations, you are allowed to work as an intern for a period of six months unless the company chooses to extend your pass. Fortunately for me, Magnetic Line extended my pass for a few additional months after which I left the company to further my career by doing the EASA Part 66 B1 modules.
However, I kept in contact with the Magnetic Line family as they contributed greatly to who I am today. The company had an opening, and I was lucky to be invited back this time around as an aircraft mechanic in Mombasa station.
What are the main challenges in your line of work?
Time. When it comes to line maintenance, time is of the essence. All maintenance procedures should be over and done within the aircraft ground time. A delay due to maintenance means a delay in flight departure which at times causes a ripple effect on aircraft operations.
Also, weather. It’s an external factor that we have no control over. We operate and perform tasks on the apron where the aircraft is parked, meaning you work out in the open. You need to be extremely careful while working in harsh environments to avoid hazards to both yourself and the aircraft.
Besides work, what are your hobbies?
Dancing, travelling, shopping, meditation, volunteering, swimming, taking walks and working out to maintain a healthy lifestyle (health is wealth). I am also a Formula 1 fan.
What are your top destinations to travel to?
I can never get enough of Dubai, a very popular tourist destination with so many places to visit and big shopping malls. Las Vegas, a very active city that knows no night or day. Take me to Zanzibar – clean white sandy beaches and good people. Also Madrid, a beautiful city with historic monuments and kempt parks.
What impact has work at Magnetic Line had on you?
Magnetic Line has made me who I am today, and I am blessed to be part of a family that helps aviation companies help the world. The company has provided an environment that allows me to perform my duties as a Lead engineer and exercise the qualification privileges that come with the certification authorization efficiently and effectively. It has been a journey but the beginning of the best that is yet to come.