Mentorship at Local 764 MTU – continuity and leadership

The picture is of Shop Steward and Mentor Gas Turbine Engine (GTE) Mechanic James Whiting working and teaching Apprentice GTE Mechanic Kevin Shin at their new Boundary Bay Engine Facility in Delta British Columbia.

Brothers James and Kevin are working on the V2500 Engine which is one of 4 Engine types overhauled at this facility. The IAE V2500 is a versatile, two-shaft high-bypass turbofan engine which powers the Airbus A320 family, the McDonnell Douglas MD-90, and the Embraer KC-390.

In this midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all had to learn to adapt to working whilst observing COVID-19 protocols. Both Mechanics are wearing masks while working, which is now a norm in the entire facility. Everyone’s diligence with observing and adhering to all safety protocols has been the lifeline to enabling MTU to remain open for business while ensuring their customers’ engines are overhauled to their expectations and delivered on time. It is a continuous team effort of dedication and professionalism which has resulted in no layoffs and the ability to create jobs for laid-off IAM members and others who were not as fortunate.

Jim Mathieson, Senior Steward at Local 764 MTU said, “Mentorship is not only a relationship in which an experienced person helps to guide a less experienced person, it’s also about leadership and continuity. The entire membership at this facility should be very proud of this achievement which should serve us well into 2021 and beyond.”

If you have any examples of mentorship at your local or district, please send them to Frank Saptel (fsaptel@iamaw.org) with high-resolution photos.