Aviation Academy

#3 We are the Aviation Academy: Fabio Neira

My name is Fabio Neira and I was born in Colombia. At the age of ten I moved from Colombia to Aruba, where I finished high school. My passion for aviation has always been present for as long as I can remember.

My biggest dream was having a career in this industry, so I had a conversation with my high school counselor. He dissuaded me from following the aviation program, but that made me more determined. I decided to follow my passion and move to Amsterdam, where I would start my study at the Hogeschool van Amsterdam and prove him wrong.

Moving on my own to the Netherlands had its pros and cons. The Netherlands has a very different culture to what I was used to in Colombia or Aruba. It was a big culture shock. Traveling half across the globe was a scary leap, but I had a goal. Now, let’s go back to the topic. As I already said, from an early age, I have had a passion for the aviation industry. During my study, this passion has developed in specific topics - especially in maintenance-, where in the future, I hope to start my career.

I am not going to lie: the first two years of the program were difficult. There were many mathematical subjects that were linked to each other, but with enough dedication and discipline I managed to complete them successfully.

Right now I am in the final phase of my study. I am currently working on my thesis research in the safety and human factors field for the Aviation Academy. I am very pleased that the Aviation Academy offered me this opportunity, not only because I am learning and gaining experience in this field, but I am also able to discuss new aviation related topics with lecturers and colleagues.

My advice for fellow students is to work hard during the first two years of the program, because this is the basis for your future. One day all your hard work will pay off so never give up!

4 February 2016