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I Get Paid To: Be An Airline Assistant

Ever wondered how you get your career to really take off? We spoke to Jaime Kilmartin, an nzgirl who studied at Air New Zealand’s Training Centre and now has a jet-setting job as an Airline Assitant for our national airline – named last week as the world’s best airline…

Name: Jaime Kilmartin
Age: 19
Employer/company: Air New Zealand
Position: Airline Assistant, Auckland International Airport

How did you get this job?
At Air New Zealand’s Training Centre in Auckland I studied for 16 weeks to obtain the Air New Zealand Certificate in Airline Customer Service. I graduated with the National Certificates in Travel & Tourism Level 3.

What inspired you to get into this field?
For me the travel and aviation industry presents a real challenge. It’s a fast paced and dynamic environment where I can build on my previous customer service experience and yet continue to be challenged.
What does a typical day look like for you?

As an airline assistant at Auckland International Airport every day is different. It’s a really active role which means I’m constantly moving throughout the airport engaging with customers and performing a variety of roles – everything from providing special assistance, to helping crew and cleaners prepare aircraft for departure.

What do you enjoy about your job most of all?

My personal highlight is the huge sense of accomplishment and satisfaction you feel when you’ve made someone’s journey easier or more enjoyable. I absolutely love my role and enjoy every day I am at work.

What are some challenges that you face in your role?
Such a varied role with a high level of customer contact means you’re constantly asked a real variety of often challenging questions. It feels fantastic though when you assist a customer then watch them board the plane with a smile.  Another challenge is adjusting to working shifts, but I can guarantee your lifestyle will never be monotonous!
 

Any advice for nzgirls wanting to get into this field?
Having a qualification that relates to the industry makes a big difference. There is a lot of competition for these roles. But remember, if you’re turned down initially don’t be discouraged. If you’re passionate and committed there will be another opportunity. 

Want a wicked job like Jaime? Check out the Certificate in Airline Customer Service, a new programme that will be offered by Air New Zealand from 2010. It consists of the National Certificate in Aviation – Core Skills, Level 3 and The National Certificate in Tourism – Core Skills, Level 3.
 
This programme prepares people for frontline roles in the aviation industry and the wider tourism industry. It includes knowledge of business operations, safety and security, develops the customer service skills, communication and teamwork skills that are essential for frontline roles. It also builds knowledge about the tourism industry and its importance to New Zealand. This programme replaces the Air New Zealand certificate in Airline Customer Service which was offered from 2006 – 2009.  
 

To celebrate the launch of the exciting new Air New Zealand Certificate in Airline Customer Service we’re giving away two Air New Zealand goodie bags. Click here to enter. 

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