At 24, Dylan Martin has found himself in his dream job.
“From the first time I was launched in a glider, I knew that my passion for aviation was more than a social activity, and I wanted to make aviation my career,” Dylan said.
After finishing school, Dylan joined a social gliding club. The first time he took the controls of a glider, he knew aviation was more than an interest. He went on to complete a Diploma of Aviation and gained his Commercial Helicopter Pilot Licence, before turning his focus to the engineering behind the aircraft.
Dylan’s career pathway reflects the 2026 National Skills Week theme, “Life Changing”, which celebrates how vocational education and training can transform individuals, strengthen industries and build Australia’s future workforce.
“While studying, my interest in aviation engineering grew and I took every opportunity to learn from the engineers and talk to them about their career pathways,” Dylan said.
“This led me to undertake the Certificate IV in Aeroskills at Aviation Australia, which got me an apprenticeship at McDermott Aviation.
“Completing my apprenticeship has allowed me to pursue an amazing career in aviation engineering.”
Dylan completed his Aircraft Maintenance Engineer apprenticeship with McDermott Aviation in Cooroy, one of Australia’s largest heli-aviation companies, supporting aerial firefighting, aerial lifting, construction and emergency response services.
He has supported engineering work across Australia and internationally, including aerial firefighting operations in Greece, Western Australia, New South Wales and Tasmania. He has also worked in remote locations, prepared helicopters for international shipping, reassembled aircraft for use, and helped maintain specialised equipment used in emergency response operations.
“I am where I am today because I was committed to the process needed to go after my career goals, and I took the time and initiative to gather valuable industry insight and make wise career choices,” Dylan said.
As Dylan’s career was taking off, he was recognised with the Boeing Australia Sponsorship Award for academic performance, leadership and dedication during his apprenticeship. More recently, he was awarded the North Coast’s Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year at the 2026 Queensland Training Awards.
A strong advocate for vocational pathways and emerging leader in aviation, Dylan is now sharing his experience with Year 10 and Aeroskills students. His story shows exactly why skills matter. It can change a life, strengthen an industry and inspire others to see what is possible.
Find out more about National Skills Week 2026.
Learn more about Queensland Training Awards.
Last updated 14 August 2026
