Delio Esquibel, 2019 AMT Next Gen Award Winner

Aug. 22, 2019

Delio Esquibel’s strong work ethic has carried through many of the rungs of the aviation world, from general airport maintenance, to working with ground support equipment and now working on aircraft themselves.

“One of my first jobs was doing general maintenance at an airport where I worked with and around aircraft. This initially piqued my interest in aviation. Shortly after, my local college offered an A&P course which further motivated me to get my license. While it wasn’t easy working and going to school full-time, I enjoy what I do and am proud to be an important part of the aviation industry,” described Esquibel. “I started working at an airport when I was 20. At first, I performed more simple tasks such as maintenance in and around hangers. I then moved my way up working with GSE fueling and defueling aircraft, also fixing and suppling equipment when needed. Working around aircraft gave me more motivation to join other departments such as aircraft interior work, storage, engines, checks. Currently I’ve been working with minor and heavy checks on B777, B737, and B747.”

Esquibel received his training at Victor Valley College SCLA School of Aviation Technology, on top of on the job training, and has additional training on B747, B767, B777, B787, L-1011 and MD-80 aircrafts.

David Murphy, writing on Esquibel’s Next Gen nomination, said: “I am recommending Esquibel for his commitment to work above and beyond the call of duty, uncommon maturity, and integrity. Esquibel was honored by SoCal PAMA as a scholarship recipient during his time in A&P School and is one of the company's best technicians. He lends a helping hand to new employees and gives good guidance. He carries himself very professionally and that extends to his treatment of not only his own tools but those of the company. Esquibel is helping to support his family as his father has become rather ill and cannot work any longer. Esquibel plays a key role in our company's push to become SMS and AS9110 certificated with championship roles for both objectives.”

Esquibel cites his number mentor as his father, who he says imparted onto him the powerful work ethic that has fueled his career.

“My number one mentor was my dad. He taught me how hard work pays off. He would always want the best for his kids and would always tell us to look for better careers. Seeing him work hard to provide for us encouraged me to pursue a career in aviation so that I could better provide for my family. His skills, knowledge and respect that he showed toward people motivated and inspired me to be who I am today. I’ve been able to show the same respect he did to those in my workplace which has given me more friends and better opportunities in the workplace,” Esquibel said. “I assist many new mechanics by not only sharing the experience I have gained with them but also by encouraging them to study and get their A&P license if they haven’t so already. I will also give them pointers on what to study and assist with any questions they may have. I do whatever I can to ensure that they are able to be a successful aviation mechanic.”

And Esquibel’s hard work has paid off – achieving his current career goal of securing a job with UPS.

“One of my goals was to get a career with UPS as they set the industry standard for A&P mechanics and I just was able to achieve that goal. In addition to that, I hope to gain more experience and knowledge in all fields of aviation, specifically, avionics,” he said.