E Q Chan, HR Analysis & Central Coordinator at Menzies Aviation

What is your Job?

I support the Human Resources development through people analytics, system support, and coordination of central recruitment across Australia and New Zealand.

Prior to this role, I led the new uniform launch project across Australia and New Zealand, managing suppliers, logistics, cost control, and a station wide launch event. I now continue to oversee uniform governance with an expansion into safety equipment.

I also write intranet content to strengthen engagement, celebrate company milestones, and recognise employees across Oceania and Southeast Asia.

What does a normal day look like for you?

Preparing reports for leadership, supporting recruitment, responding to HR and uniform enquiries, and coordinating across stations.

Coffee breaks are important – Connecting with my colleagues to understand their work and share their development on the intranet.

What is your favourite part of the job?

The people.

From assisting passengers during meaningful life moments to collaborating with colleagues across Australia, New Zealand, and globally, every interaction has shaped my growth.

Each person I meet brings a different perspective. Aviation is a people industry, and that human connection continues to inspire me.

How did you get to where you are today?

March 2023 – Moved from Hong Kong to Sydney

May 2023 – Joined Menzies as a Passenger with Reduced Mobility Agent

October 2023 – Became a Passenger Service Officer for Garuda Indonesia

July 2024 – Stepped into a secondment role as Uniform Coordinator

March 2025 – Began creating content for the internal news feed

January 2026 – Extended my secondment as HR Analysis & Central Coordination

It was a big transition and a lot of pressure to move country and change from white collar to blue collar. However, I embrace every opportunity and commit fully to each role.

My journey reflects that career progression in aviation is possible even for new migrants, when you are willing to learn and take initiative.

What qualifications do you need to apply for your job?

Passenger services do not necessarily require formal qualifications. Customer service experience, multilingual ability, and communication skills are strong advantages.

Menzies provides structured on the job training. I entered Menzies with no aviation experience and transitioned into HR without formal HR training. The company supported my development through hands on learning and mentorship.

For corporate pathways, a bachelor’s degree or further study such as TAFE can strengthen opportunities.

What character qualities do you think suit this position?

Teamwork, Integrity, Adaptability, Attention to detail, Strong communication skills, Empathy

Aviation requires operational awareness and emotional intelligence. The ability to remain calm and solution focused in dynamic environments is essential.

 What is involved in the training for your job or for the qualification you gained to get your job?

Menzies provided passenger services training included aviation safety, site visit, airline product knowledge, and visa and travel documentation requirements. There were also practical simulations and supervised check in sessions to ensure we were competent before working independently.

If you could go back and give your younger self some advice, what would it be?

Transition can feel overwhelming. Take it one step at a time and trust yourself. Everything will improve if you stay committed.

I resonate with a quote by Steve Jobs: You cannot connect the dots looking forward, only backwards.

No experience is ever wasted. The skills you gain today may become the foundation of tomorrow if you choose to apply it meaningfully.

What advice would you give younger girls wanting to start a career in Aviation?

Aviation offers far more than the roles people commonly see. There are opportunities in operations, safety, HR, analytics, logistics, leadership, and strategy.

Do not be discouraged if you start in an entry level role. That foundation builds credibility and understanding.

If you are new to the country, do not underestimate yourself. Aviation values resilience, diversity, and initiative.

Do you have anything else you would like to share?

Aviation gave me more than employment. It gave me confidence, community, and professional growth in a new country.

I hope my journey encourages others to see migration not as a limitation, but as the beginning of opportunity.