High flyer Fletcher
10 October 2016
University of Waikato engineering graduate Fletcher Jackson loves flying. Lucky really, because he’s got a job building designer aircrafts.
Fletcher is an engineer at Vickers Aircraft Company, a specialist aircraft developer in Hamilton.
The Vickers team is small which means Fletcher has a lot to do.
“My job varies from programming and operating machinery, developing different components of the plane, designing production machinery and helping to set up the company workflow for our expansion,” says the former Tauranga Boys’ College student.
Fletcher’s not just working on any plane either. He’s helping build the Vickers WaveTM – the latest design of amphibious light sport aircraft.
“It’s a plane that can be used on land and sea, complete with all the latest technical features and innovations,” he says.
Fletcher graduated from the University of Waikato last year with a Bachelor of Engineering with Honours majoring in mechanical engineering.
During his studies he got involved in WESMO, a student group that designs and builds a race car each year to race against other universities at the international Formula SAE competition.
Fletcher was in charge of designing the aerodynamics package for the WESMO car. “This involved making composite parts from carbon fibre,” he says. “I looked for companies to sponsor the project and Vickers Aircraft Company were willing to help. After working with them to produce the body work for the car I was offered a full time job.”
For Fletcher, it was the practical projects, summer placements and culture at Waikato that helped prepare him for industry. He says students should make the most of their time at university to take risks and try new things.
“Don't be afraid to take on tasks that seem out of your depth, you’ll surprise yourself with what you can do.”