The YVR hangar is alive with energy. Planes glide in and out, tools clatter across workbenches, and the team works seamlessly to keep every aircraft safe and ready to fly. Among them is Alea, an avionics technician whose curiosity, determination, and love for aviation are impossible to miss. 

Alea Mclaren: Avionics Technician

What Inspired Alea

Alea’s fascination with aviation began while she was traveling and living abroad in her early twenties. Spending so much time on planes gave her a new appreciation for the experience of flying.

She loved the idea that a machine could safely carry people from one place to another by air and found the whole concept endlessly exciting. Alea loved watching the world from above and discovering new perspectives with every flight. 

Her fascination extends to aviation history. She finds it incredible that humans were attempting to fly long before it was possible, often trying to mimic birds’ wings. “It’s hilarious and really interesting how people kept trying and eventually figured out a way to fly,” Alea says. That mix of creativity, curiosity, and persistence inspired her to pursue a career in aviation herself. 

Becoming an Avionics Technician 

Alea’s journey into aviation became a reality when she was awarded an AME apprenticeship. This program allowed her to join Harbour Air and gain hands-on experience while developing the skills needed to become an avionics technician. As an avionics technician, Alea works on the electrical systems that make aircraft operate safely and efficiently. Her work covers radios, lighting, heating systems, and more. Some days she’s building wire harnesses on connecters in the shop. Other days she installs the systems on planes and runs tests to make sure everything works perfectly. Troubleshooting is the part she enjoys most. It's the most fun, but also the most challenging at times. 

Even without a background in mechanics or aviation, Alea has found the environment welcoming and supportive. “As long as you show up with a good attitude, people are so excited to share their knowledge with you,” she says. That mindset has helped her learn quickly and enjoy every part of her apprenticeship. 

Mentors and Role Models 

Mentorship has played a big role in Alea’s journey. She credits her teachers from school for being incredibly supportive early on. Near the end of her studies, she had the incredible opportunity to meet Captain Judy Cameron, Air Canada’s first female captain, which left a lasting impression on her. 

At Harbour Air, Alea continues to learn from her mentor, Andrey Gayday, an aircraft maintenance engineer who guides her every step of the way. With years of industry experience, he shares his knowledge and expertise, helping her grow as an avionics technician. “His knowledge is absolutely amazing, and I’ve learned so much from him,” she says.

Advice for Aspiring Aviators 

Alea encourages anyone interested in aviation to explore every opportunity. Scholarships and apprenticeships provide hands-on experience while also easing financial pressures. She explains that flying is often the first career people think of, and it was her first choice too, but she quickly discovered how many other exciting paths exist. From maintenance and operations to technical writing and, of course, avionics, there is a role for every interest and skill set. 

Aviation is full of possibilities, and finding the right fit can be incredibly rewarding. For Alea, avionics turned out to be the perfect match. She finds the work fulfilling, hands-on, and endlessly interesting, and she hopes others will feel encouraged to explore the options that speak to them. 

And when asked her preference: window or aisle, there is no hesitation. “Window, always.” 

Take Off on Your Own Aviation Adventure 

Alea’s story shows that aviation is full of exciting possibilities. If you are curious about planes, flying, or even the technology that keeps aircraft in the air, the Elevate Aviation Learning Centre is a great place to start. Harbour Air has teamed up with Elevate Aviation in creating an Aviation Career Exploration program to give young people a hands-on look at a variety of aviation careers. You can explore everything from aircraft maintenance to cutting-edge sustainable technologies while discovering what part of aviation sparks your passion. Who knows? Your window seat to the skies might be closer than you think. 

Learn more about the ACE Program here!