Katey Lloyd is an independent A&P who is making great strides in the early years of her aviation career.
CEO, Owner and DOM at Newball Aerospace, LLC Gilroy Dane Newball highlights Katey’s value and dedication as an A&P, particularly significant during the industry’s shortage of new AMTs and A&Ps.
Newball says, “She actively works in an area that many A&Ps will often neglect: general aviation. She not only works actively to continue being proficient but also has provided insight to me in my work. It’s technicians with her work ethic and pursuit of excellence that the industry really needs, especially now.”
After only nine months in the aviation workforce, Lloyd has achieved several milestones, like founding her own LLC that allows her to work independently as an A&P while pursuing her travel goals.
When asked what she enjoys most about her job and the industry, Lloyd emphasized how she thrives working with her hands and learning about different aircraft.
She adds, “I like how intricate yet diverse each aircraft, equipment or task is. It never gets boring. In one month, I had done engine work repairing leaks, fabricating sheet metal reinforcements and replaced windows which involved riveting, some basic avionics training, and worked on cutting and replacing interior plastics, all on a Piper Navajo.”
While Katey has found great success in her career so far, she hopes for even more progress in the diversity of aviation programs and fields.
Lloyd notes, “I would like to continue seeing growth in the acceptance of females in the industry…the school I attended as well as the places I have worked in not only support but are very encouraging to those who are entering the industry. Unfortunately, that is not the case everywhere you go...”
As a young mechanic, Lloyd offers advice to other aspiring aviation professionals. She says, “Sticking to your goals and achievements you want to reach in life is particularly important. But when making your goals, have smaller goals that work up to your big accomplishments. Times will get intense and overwhelming, but if you have small things that you can work towards will help you work through the bigger things.”
