For Benjamin Everett, a love for aviation runs in the family. His father is a manufacturing engineer and his grandfather was an expediter in the aviation industry. They were a big influence on Everett’s choice to join the aviation industry.
Everett started working for Boeing on Sept. 28, 2007. He began in the factory and later went to A&P school. He attended Everett Community College for its Part 147 program from 2014 to 2016. He then started on the flight line in Everett on Aug. 6, 2018.
Everett’s current responsibilities include preflight and postflight inspections, preparing the plane for FAA ticketing, working on towing crews, replacing defective parts and making sure everyone’s tools are accounted for at the beginning and end of shifts. He also runs various functional tests including initial fueling, APU checks, weighing aircraft, camera alignment, ELT tests, flight controls coordination checks, potable water system disinfection, avionics checks, right seat on engine runs, compass swings, AC pack checks, NGS checks, dry/wet motoring of engines and ground support on all manner of operations.
Everett said he has had many mentors in the past, though not a long-term mentor, per se, since he has moved around to several different work areas.
Being precise is important to Everett. “I make sure everything I touch is correct before the airplane is delivered to the customer and flies away,” he said. “If I see someone else working on something that looks a little bit off to me, I’ll mention it to them.” Everett believes this is the best way to help his colleagues learn and correct their mistakes. “I’ve noticed that the people around me learn better when I ask them about it, then let them come to the conclusion themselves,” he commented.
For now, Everett’s career goals include continuing to work on the Everett flight line.
Craig Christon, who nominated Everett for this award, said, “I have witnessed Ben Everett turn into a highly professional AMT at Boeing. He mainly works on the B777-200 and -300 aircraft on the Boeing Everett Flight-Line. He works on all ATA Codes on the final testing and maintenance of this aircraft.” Christon commended Everett’s ability to work alone or in a team environment, as well as dealing with extreme weather while working on the flight line. Christon also noted, “he can also work on boom lifts, working on the highest points of the aircraft.” Christon also pointed out that, as a Level Nine AMT at Boeing, Everett has several certifications that help him in his role, such as oxygen and electrical certification.
The 2020 AMT 40 Under 40 Award is Everett’s first industry award; however, in the past, he has received certificates and pins for five and 10 years of seniority from his employer.
