Spartan Alumni Spotlight: Shannon Farris

Questions

1. When did you first become interested in aviation?
   I’ve always been fascinated by aviation, but I never really imagined myself as part of the industry. A family member introduced me to Spartan and encouraged me to look into it. Taking that leap turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and led me to discover my true passion.
2. Can you tell us about your journey from training to where you are now?
   I started as anR&D Technician, working on multiple technologies that are still in service and production at BAE Systems. In 2022, I transitioned to the role of Production Planner, which presents new challenges every day. My responsibilities include managing schedules, prioritizing quality, and ensuring my team has the materials they need to succeed.
3. What was the biggest challenge you faced in your aviation career, and how did you overcome it?
   One of the biggest challenges was working with a new dispensing robot for bonding techniques. I played a key role in developing its use and creating a process plan for future applications.
4. What has surprised you most about the aviation industry?
   The sheer variety of work! I never expected to be involved in so many different technologies. Aviation is constantly evolving, and it has provided me with several opportunities to learn and grow.
5. What’s one of the most memorable experiences you’ve had in your career so far?
   I was part of a team that worked tirelessly to recover a failed build. The experience brought us all together. We spent every day troubleshooting and problem-solving as a unit. The bond we formed during that project still exists today.
6. How has aviation impacted your life beyond just your career?
   It has given me a tremendous boost in confidence. I’ve realized what I’m capable of, and that mindset carries over into every aspect of my life.
7. What advice would you give to someone considering a career in aviation?
   Just go for it and do it as soon as you can. I never thought I’d be here, but I’m so glad I took the chance. If I could give my younger self advice, I’d tell myself to start sooner!
8. What qualities or skills do you think are most important for success in aviation?
   Teamwork, communication and integrity.
9. Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
   I hope to continue growing with BAE Systems. They’ve provided me with incredible opportunities, and I look forward to advancing my career within the company.
10. Is there a moment in your aviation career that made you step back and think, "This is exactly where I’m meant to be"?
    The moment I built my first functional piece of hardware and saw it turn on. Knowing that I played a role in creating something that works and serves a purpose was an incredible feeling. For lack of better terms, it was really cool.
11. What is something that you wish more people knew or understood about aviation?
    Aviation isn’t just about airplanes. It’s also aerospace, defense, and cutting-edge technology. It’s constantly growing and evolving, shaping industries beyond just commercial aviation.
12. What does "Find Your Aero" mean to you?
    For me, it means finding myself—discovering a future that helped me grow into the person I am today.

*Bonus Q: If you could fly or work on any aircraft, past or present, which one would it be and why? The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress—the same aircraft my grandfather worked on during World War II. Being able to work on a piece of history like that would be an incredible honor.