The Portraits of Changemakers series focuses on visionary individuals who work at Aeromag and who, every day, demonstrate a willingness to make a difference in the world. Among them, Drake Traverse, Training and Compliance Coordinator at our Vancouver station (YVR), British Columbia.
Drake has been part of the Aeromag family for ten (10) years. During his very first season, he held two (2) positions: Deicing Technician and Bay Lead. He was then introduced to the role of Practical Trainer, which sparked his passion for training. Drake later held the positions of Assistant Head Trainer and Head Trainer, before transitioning into his current role as Training and Compliance Coordinator.
What makes him so passionate about his work is the diversity of challenges it brings each day, but above all, the responsibility of ensuring passenger safety. Initially, his role mainly involved teaching the team how to deice an aircraft. Today, he focuses primarily on ensuring the team follow procedures and that members become effective presenters.
“I am proud to be part of the Aeromag team, especially because of the incredible people I have the chance to work with. There is nothing more satisfying than reflecting on a long and intense day of operations on the way home, eagerly looking forward to doing it all over again the next day.”
The training is tailored for both seasonal and permanent staff. Seasonal employees receive condensed training focused on the essential skills needed for a short-term role, with an emphasis on operational procedures and safety. In contrast, permanent employees undergo more extensive and ongoing training, including the development of advanced and leadership skills. Permanent employees also participate in refresher courses and professional development activities to support their long-term career growth.
Adequate training is crucial to ensure the safety of employees, passengers, and equipment. Challenges include a shortage of training staff and motivated employees for practical training. The Training and Compliance team has developed various tools, including practical training sessions and a six (6)-day intensive program to quickly onboard new recruits. This year, efforts are focused on transforming theoretical training into a self-paced course via the new training platform.
Although Drake faces the challenge of juggling his former responsibilities with those of his current role, while ensuring that he supports the YVR station as well as the rest of the teams, he sees these obstacles as opportunities for growth. “I wouldn’t change anything about my experience, and I would be curious to reflect on my journey and the ideas I would have if asked the same questions next year. This enthusiasm drives me to continue evolving in my role and contributing to the team’s success.”
Drake might use his determination and sense of collaboration to reach new heights as a team, but he isn’t the only changemaker at Aeromag. Discover the other fascinating portraits of the key players in our big family.