"Learning How to Learn is Essential"
Today, I'm sharing the fourth article in our series focusing on the T(h)rust Talent Program, bringing you behind the scenes through sincere interviews with those on this journey. Following Can, Sina, and Aslı, today I'm hosting Eraycan Varbil.
Born and raised in İzmir (with roots in Manisa), Eraycan graduated from Eskişehir Technical University, Department of Electrical and Electronics. He joined SunExpress Airlines on January 17, 2025, while still a senior at university. Including his six-month internship, he has been working at our İzmir Station as a Candidate Aircraft Mechanic for nearly a year and a half.
Eraycan picked a Rammstein track for us, "Ich Will", which he has had on repeat lately following his three-week training session in Hamburg. Feel free to open it in another tab and give it a listen while reading our chat!
1. How did you learn about the T(h)rust Talent Program, and what motivated you to apply?
I learned about the program through a presentation at my university. For me, it was a great opportunity to enter the aviation industry while I was still a student.
SunExpress Maintenance Organization was already known as an excellent environment for students to learn and grow. The structured career path and developmental opportunities offered by the program were the main reasons I wanted to join.
2. How would you evaluate your journey so far, transitioning from a student to an active member of our Line Maintenance team?
Line maintenance is a very dynamic and sometimes fast-paced environment. During my internship, I learned a lot from my mentors and experienced teammates.
They helped me understand the system behind the busy operation and adapt to it smoothly. For me, putting safety first is always the top priority. I am learning by doing and combining my university knowledge with practical, hands-on experience.
3. What is the most rewarding part of working here for you, and what has been your biggest challenge so far?
The most rewarding aspect for me is having the freedom and support to continuously improve myself. The guidance from my teammates and managers keeps me motivated for my future career.
My biggest challenge has been communication. In line maintenance, many people and processes work together simultaneously. Therefore, communicating clearly and effectively is essential. This is an area I continue to develop every single day.
4. In your opinion, what sets the T(h)rust Talent Program apart from a standard aircraft technician role or application process?
I think the biggest difference is that the program focuses not only on technical skills, but also on personal and professional development.
We receive regular training, join team meetings, and take on real responsibilities, which makes us feel that we play an important role in the future of aircraft maintenance. Also, starting while we are still at university gives us a head start before launching our full-time careers.
5. Tell us about your Lufthansa Technical Training GmbH (LTT) experience and what you gained from the training environment in Hamburg?
My LTT experience in Hamburg was a truly valuable journey for me. It gave me the opportunity to see a different maintenance organization and understand how a global aviation company operates. During this process, I grew not only technically, but also personally. Living in a different country helped me improve my communication skills, gain confidence, and adapt to a new environment.
The most important takeaway from LTT was gaining a broader perspective on aircraft maintenance. Seeing different operational approaches helped me realize that there is always something new to learn in aviation.
6. Any last thoughts or recommendations for aircraft technician students or anyone planning a career in a maintenance organization?
The aviation industry is constantly evolving, so there is always something new to learn. For this reason, I believe learning how to learn is essential.
Teamwork is also crucial, because you can gain so much wisdom from other people's experiences.
Finally, focus on building strong interpersonal and communication skills. Aviation is a vast yet closely connected community, and the people you meet today may become your teammates tomorrow. Technical knowledge will naturally build over time through your education and company experience. So, keep learning and never be afraid of what you don't know yet!
Thank you, Eraycan, for sharing your experience with us. I am confident your advice will inspire many aspiring technicians who are planning to build their careers in aircraft maintenance.
To my readers: stay tuned for the next story in our series, see you in the next interview!
