Smith switched career directions in her 30s and is still soaring with pride for her decision

“I jumped into this new career to show my son that he doesn’t have to put himself in a box,” she said. “If you want to work in the aviation space, do it! I didn’t know this was an option for me when I was younger, I didn’t know anything about it."

Ashley Smith moved to the Piedmont Triad in 2004 for her senior year at Page High School. The New Jersey native never left.  

After working in information technology for almost 20 years in the Triad, she started to get a little nervous about her career path potentially taking her out of Greensboro.

“I worked in IT project management with a focus in systems coding. I felt a shift in this industry and knew that I would have to acquire new skills if I planned on staying in the Triad. I have a big passion for community involvement in Greensboro and wanted find something in an industry that wasn’t going anywhere,” said 39-year-old Smith.

That’s when the recent buzz about aviation grabbed her attention.

“I would read about more aviation companies announcing they were moving here, joining the already established companies already here, and thought this may be the right avenue for me,’’ Smith said.

After a quick internet search for educational programs in the industry, she found GTCC and Tony Turner, program director of GTCC’s Aviation Manufacturing Quick Careers Program (AMQCP).

“I started by calling (GTCC) to ask questions, and Tony answered the call. He started by sharing details about the quick careers program for airframe manufacturing and said I might be eligible for the Metallica Scholarship, which I was!” she excitedly shared. “He walked me through everything, 100 percent of the way. I really just got a hook, line, and sinker with that first phone call!”

In April of 2024, Smith started the 18-week AMQCP, which offers pathways for the skills needed for entry-level employment in in-demand fields, such as aerospace, auto racing, general manufacturing, aviation, and more.

“I really loved the program. I don’t know how he has fined tuned it to being so well balanced,” said Smith. “You have classroom work and hands-on work, and Tony has found the miracle balance between the two. After I finished the program, I knew I wanted to continue.”

The AMQCP courses are designed based on local workforce demands, providing students with hands-on training and equipment. The program also sets aside time for local aviation companies to come and speak with the students.

“HAECO came to visit us in class, along with other aviation companies. I asked the representative from HAECO if our class could come tour the hangar, and they said, ‘sure’ and those big planes really made me fall in love with the company,” shared Smith.

“I also saw a very diverse group of people working at HAECO. Seeing people of different cultures, demographics, and abilities working at HAECO really made me feel like anyone can do it! I felt … I could do it … and feel supported in this industry. That’s when I started applying to HAECO.”

Smith was hired as fulltime employee at HAECO that same year. Now, she is managing materials for one of HAECO's commercial partners.

“Everything that goes on the plane and off the plane I manage. I make sure the mechanics have everything that they need.”

“Ashley exemplifies the kind of talent and determination we value, and we're lucky to have her at HAECO,” Bill Sclama, HAECO's director of training. “She is dependable, ambitious, and quick to raise her hand to participate in HAECO initiatives that support the broader community.

“Ashley's journey from IT to aviation is a testament to the power of high-quality training programs at GTCC and demonstrates the possibilities in aviation for anyone looking for a rewarding, in-demand career,” Sclama added. “GTCC continues to be an outstanding partner in preparing the next generation of aircraft maintenance technicians ensuring passenger safety."

With a desire to keep expanding her education in the aviation industry, Smith began her associate in aviation systems technology (AST), in January of this year. Approved by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the AST program provides the knowledge and skills to qualify for an aircraft mechanic’s certificate with airframe and/or powerplant ratings.

With HAECO’s encouragement, she’s able to work third shift, support her husband and son during the day, and attend school at GTCC in the evenings. With one associate degree in information systems under her belt as a young adult, Smith is proud to show her young son that pivoting your career in your late 30’s to find a job you love is totally worth it.

“I jumped into this new career to show my son that he doesn’t have to put himself in a box,” she said. “If you want to work in the aviation space, do it! I didn’t know this was an option for me when I was younger, I didn’t know anything about it. I can introduce my son to this; he can do it. I want to show him what’s out here.

“We have a family fun day coming up, and I’m excited to show my son HAECO!”

She credits her incredible husband and son for helping through this busy time, but she still comes back to share praise of Turner and GTCC.

“Tony is amazing, and he has been one that really motivates me and keeps me motivated in this place. He’s well versed and very knowledgeable. He’s helped me with what I should do, what steps I should take next.”

The 4.0 student has some advice for anyone interested in breaking into a career in aviation.

“If you’re not sure about it, check out the quick careers program, it’s very comprehensive and easy to grasp and a great place to start.”

For more information AMQCP, visit gtcc.edu/amqcp/index.php or on AST, visit gtcc.edu/academics/academic-programs/programs/manufacturing-transportation-construction/aviation-systems-technology.php.