Last week’s blog about leaders being needed to step up for the aspirations of aircraft technicians clearly did not generate interest. I blame myself for this because if the blog were written well enough I am sure there would have been a significant number of responses indicating either agreement or dissent with the central argument. Hopefully the lack of response is not indicative of a lack of interest in this theme. If you are not out there promoting your profession, how can you expect others not in your profession to understand your challenges, appreciate your knowledge and skill, and empathize with your frustrations and hopes?
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In this regard, I am sure most of you are well aware of the news from PAMA and possibly my recent opinions indicating PAMA should recognize its lack of success and turn the reigns of leadership over to others. I have read where the association has once again turned over its administrative functions to an outside firm. While PMR may be excellent at what it does, it does not do it for free. How will it be paid? Members’ dues, sponsors…? I don’t know but I say again it is time for PAMA to stop taking money from the aircraft technician constituency and misleading sponsors into thinking that their donations are helping the technician. Meanwhile PAMF, the 501,3C foundation that was established by PAMA as a separate, arm’s-length organization, dedicated to generating and administering scholarship monies to worthy erstwhile A&Ps, continues to function and should be supported fully. The emphasis here is that is where the sponsor’s monies should be funneled. Not to PMR to support failed programs and the personal aggrandizement of a few individuals.
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On the other hand this magazine and its expo division has supported the development of AMTSociety because it was recognized that PAMA was not getting the job done. Significant resources and labor have been put into this effort. Is it succeeding? Is the message clear? Is it easy to access? What do you think of these efforts? Is it going in the right direction? Can it be doing things better, and, if so, what things and how? Oh, I could come up with countless questions but I think you get my drift. Let me know what you think about the Society. No holds barred! And if you think I am all wet about PAMA let me know that too.
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There are many challenges facing aircraft technicians from all spheres … whether airline, regional, business, charter, MRO, etc., and it will help if each of you contribute your thoughts and hopes so that those willing to don the mantle of leadership know what these are so that they can develop the tools and strategies necessary to get the job done.