Down for Maintenance: Cynthia Rodina Shares Her Aviation Journey
Cynthia joined us at one of our Lunch & Learns to share her journey as an aviation maintenance expert and designated mechanic examiner. From her earliest days learning the ropes in the hangar to becoming a mentor and one of only three A& P examiners for the FAA, Cynthia has carved out a powerful path in an industry that hasn’t always made space for women.
With warmth, humor, and straight talk, Cynthia walked us through some of the pivotal moments in her career — including the pressures of being the only woman in the room, the responsibility of certifying new A&Ps, and the quiet joy of seeing a student’s eyes light up when something finally clicks.
She emphasized how important it is to show up prepared, stay curious, and never underestimate the impact of a good mentor. As someone who’s spent years both on the tools and in leadership, her words landed deeply with our team — especially our WOMEN BUILD PLANES apprentices, many of whom are dreaming of their own future in aviation maintenance.
Cynthia reminded us that technical skill is only part of the equation. It’s the mindset, the integrity, and the willingness to keep learning that truly set great aviation professionals apart. We’re grateful to Cynthia Rodina for taking the time to share her story, her insight, and her belief in the next generation. Her visit was more than a talk — it was a spark.
