PAMA has
issued an open invitation for superior maintenance technicians to
demonstrate their skill in front of thousands of aviation
technicians, managers, manufacturers and suppliers, as well as
aviation industry press. The third PAMA Aviation Maintenance
Olympics at the PAMA Symposium and AS3/GSE Trade Show, May 11-13,
will once again include company-sponsored three-person teams
representing the best this industry has to offer.
"This is a great opportunity for companies to increase their
presence in the aviation industry and support their maintenance
technicians. And team slots are still available! We're looking for
the best of the best to form teams this year," said John Boomhower,
Chairman of the PAMA Aviation Maintenance Olympics Committee.
Past teams recognize the value of their
participation. "Not only did we place second last year, we came
back to work with new motivation," said Bob Haines, coach of the
Maintenance Craftsmen of Orlando, a team of Delta Airline AMTs.
"The Maintenance Olympics support the importance of pride in our
work. It's that professionalism and pride we strive to demonstrate
everyday."
The team competition begins with two compulsory events on May
10, and then teams will show their stuff in up to 5 other events on
May 11-12. Competitions will take place for all to see in the
Olympic Hangar on the AS3/GSE show floor. Competitors will be
judged on speed, accuracy and adherence to established
standards.
Maintenance Olympics events include:
- Data Research
- Troubleshooting
- Avionics/Electronics
- Rigging
- Hydraulic Line Fabrication
- Safety Wire
- Hardware Identification
All
participating team members will receive a gift, and Gold, Silver
and Bronze medals will be awarded to winning team members. The
winning company will earn the right to display a 6-foot lighted
trophy for as many years as its team remains champion. "Bombardier
Aircraft Services will be back to defend their title and their
possession of the trophy," Mr. Boomhower said.
Individual "TechnAthletes" will have the opportunity to compete
in three events for the TechnAthlete of the Year's much coveted
Golden Wrench. They will also be able to measure their improvement
from year to year.
The PAMA Aviation Maintenance Olympics is the place for
mechanics to showcase their skills and professionalism. "Teams
should sign up fast," said the Committee Chairman.
FMI: Call PAMA at 703-417-8800 or download the Maintenance
Olympics form on the Olympics page at www.pama.org.