Bethany Rider Talks Avionics and Mechanics

Meet Bethany Rider, a 23 years old A&P Mechanic, Avionics Technician & aspiring pilot from Phoenix, Arizona! @aviation.beth

How it Started

During my junior year of high school, I was encouraged by a counsellor to apply to a trade school, “West-Mec”, that allowed for dual enrolment with my high school. There, I was accepted into an “Avionics/Drone Electronics” program. During the 2 years of the program, I learnt basic aircraft fundamentals, basic electricity, how to terminate and repair wire, troubleshoot circuits, and use a variety of wiring tools. At the end of the program, I tested and earned my FCC. General Radiotelephone Operator License.

After completing that program, I joined the West-Mec Aviation Maintenance Technology program where I learned how to maintain, repair, and inspect the Airframe & Powerplant of aircraft. During the 2 years of this program, I was able to earn my A&P license, which allows me to work on aircraft as a qualified mechanic.

Current Role

Currently, I work as a Repair Station Avionics Installer II where our team performs Avionics modifications and upgrades. This involves schematic reading, wire install, removal, repair, and software upgrades.

Previously, I worked with a small General Aviation shop, “Aerosecure Avionics & Maintenance” that performs custom Avionics & routine maintenance. There, I was able to be involved in Annual & 100 Hour inspections, custom avionics projects such as the complete removal and installation of upgraded instrument panels, and commonly, the installation of Autopilot systems. My favourite part of being involved in this field is simply being around aircraft, and learning from the skilled individuals around me every day who have supported and inspired me to pursue this career.

Best Piece of Advice

My advice to anybody wanting to pursue a career as a technician or mechanic is to reach out to a school that offers an Aviation Technology program, meet with an advisor, and see what the program has to offer.

Before I joined the Avionics program, I didn’t know anything about aircraft, or what avionics even meant. However, I discovered a passion and career that has deeply fulfilled my life more than I could’ve imagined. Becoming involved in Aviation was the best decision I have ever made!

Future Plans

In the next year I will be finishing my associates degree in Aviation Science, and hopefully enrolling into a program to earn my private pilot's certificate, and potentially my commercial. I also plan to move from the Avionics Installation side, to routine maintenance with my current company in order to expand my skills as a technician. I truly believe the opportunities within aviation are endless, and I’m always eager to look forward to the next chapter.