Hello WOE!

My name is Brittany Downing and I’m a member of the Women of EASA (WOE) board. I am also the Operations Manager at Apparatus Repair & Engineering, Inc. (AR&E) in Hagerstown, Maryland. I will “technically” be a third-generation owner of our motor shop (My grandfather and father purchased the company together as co-owners). I love to travel as often as possible and enjoy experiencing new cultures and gaining new friends along the way. I have met some amazing women since being a part of EASA, sometimes related to motor shop chats, other times discussing favorite books or places we have visited. I truly love being a part of this quickly growing, varied group!

1. How long have I been in the industry and how did U get involved?

My father and grandfather bought AR&E in 1992. I spent my childhood in and out of the shop, started with making necklaces from scrap wire, to doing filing and typing. When I was in high school, I worked part-time doing inventory and receptionist work while helping in rewind. Received my college degree in Intercultural Studies, travelled a bit, got married and divorced then came back to the company and have been running the business with my father ever since.

2. What’s the most surprising thing about this industry or your role?

How diversified our customer base is. We will be in sewage treatment plants one day, a super-secret military site the next and the following at a nursing home. Every single one of them is always so appreciative when you help get them out of a jam, no matter their background or what they do for a living. The excitement of helping different people in different walks of life make this industry so exciting for me.

3. What subjects are you open to consulting/sharing advice on to other members?

Running a company as a female / multi-generational person. Being a female in a motor shop world we all know presents its fun and challenges but sometimes adding the factor of working with your family members can add a layer that can be complicated, while a blessing at the same time.

4. What are you most looking forward to with Women of EASA?

Similar to Jan, my father was part of an RCE group that I later joined and enjoy today. I love that we can bounce information and ideas off each other, but I also find myself wishing there was another female voice in the mix. We tend to see things differently and can bring a lot to the table. My hope is that WOE can be the same type of collaborative community where we help each other succeed in business and in life!

5. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

You don’t have to be an expert at every part of your business. You just hire the people that are the best at their job and let them do their thing. Everyone succeeds.