Lisa Oberg: Flying Instructor
What is your current job role?
I am currently a C Category instructor, Club Meteorology Lecturer; I attend Career expo evenings and I also travel around the high schools in the Christchurch area to talk to students about how to become a pilot.
Who do you work for?
I currently work for the Canterbury Aero Club on a Saturday and also the Aviation Academy during the week days. Started working with the Aero Club in January this year and began working for the academy August this year.
What made you want to work in this industry? Who inspired you?
I had wanted to be a pilot since I was 12 years old which was good because I always knew which subjects to do at school which was easier. I don’t have anyone in my family who is into aviation at all so when I started my training in 2007 I started completely from scratch. My parents however have been very supportive which has been fantastic.
What training path are you currently on, and how far have you to go before you finish?
I have completed my: Private Pilots License, Commercial Cross Country rating, Multi-Engine Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilots License and Instructors rating all within one and a half years. Now I am currently building my flying hours and gaining experience so that I can move on up the ladder towards the Airlines.
What is the best part of working in aviation?
The fact that I’m not stuck in an office every day looking out the window at the same view. Every day is different and I love telling people what I do when they ask.
What has been the biggest challenge to reaching your goals?
Study was the biggest challenge, there is a lot of study and a lot to learn within one year but the good thing is.....it is only one year, after that you are free to work wherever you want doing whatever you want.
Where do you see your future in the industry?
For the rest of this year I can see myself remaining at the Canterbury Aero club and for the future I would like to be working overseas for a big airline flying a Boeing 777 around the world. When I get older I would also like to own my on small single engine aircraft so that I can spend my weekends flying for leisure.
What would you say to a new entrant to the industry to encourage them on their way?
I love my job, I love waking up in the morning knowing that I’m about to have another exciting day, because no two days are ever the same. I also love to learn new things and with aviation there is always something new that you can learn. I have always wanted to see the world and being a pilot is the best way to do it.
