Deniss Lebedevs’ path into aviation is a perfect example of following your curiosity and making the most of every opportunity. As a student finishing high school, Deniss struggled to decide on a career direction. Although his diploma focused on the humanities, he found himself drawn to aviation transport engineering. Despite the challenges he anticipated, Deniss decided to pursue his passion and took the leap into this demanding field.
His first step into the aviation world was through an internship at Smartlynx, though not in the role he initially envisioned. Deniss had his sights set on becoming a part of the maintenance team, but when no positions were available, he accepted an offer to join the supply chain and logistics department instead. For Deniss, this was a strategic decision: “I had a feeling that by taking on the challenge, I could move closer to my ultimate goal.”
The internship turned out to be the exact experience he wished for and more. Deniss had the chance to collaborate with teams across the technical department, gaining insights into the industry’s operations and the interplay of various roles within it. He credits this period with helping him understand the bigger picture of how the aviation sector functions.
At the end of his internship, Deniss’ dedication and contributions didn’t go unnoticed. Recognizing his potential, his manager offered him a position as a Junior Materials Controller. While it might not have crossed his mind before, he embraced it as a sign of progression. His manager also supported his ambitions, introducing him to others in the company and advocating for his career growth. Thanks to this mentorship, Deniss eventually transitioned into his current role as a Junior Aircraft Mechanic at Smartlynx Technik.
“The best thing about my role is being where I wanted to be from the start,” Deniss shares. Over the past year, he’s been tackling new tasks and gaining hands-on experience in a field where everything was unfamiliar. “The learning curve has been steep, but I’m fortunate to have a supportive team of experienced mechanics and engineers. They’re always ready to guide me and help me succeed.”
Deniss considers reaching this role a major achievement, but he’s equally proud of the confidence he’s gained along the way. Looking back on his journey, Deniss recalls one of the surprising lessons he learned early on: just how expensive aircraft and their maintenance can be! “Aviation is an incredibly high-stakes industry,” he notes, adding, “There’s still so much to learn, but every day I’m moving in the right direction.”
The workplace culture at Smartlynx has been one of the key factors in Deniss’ growth. He describes the environment as collaborative and supportive, with colleagues always willing to share their knowledge and expertise. This sense of teamwork has been essential in helping him navigate the challenges of his role.
From uncertain beginnings to finding his place in the aviation world, this story reminds us of the importance of determination, adaptability, and a strong support system in achieving one’s career goals.
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (the)
