Finding Her Place in Aviation: Freda’s Journey to the Salus Aviation Avionics Team

When Freda Escano was a child in the Philippines, she dreamed of becoming a pilot. Although flying school was financially out of reach, her passion for aviation never faded. Instead, it led her toward another path in the industry — avionics.

Today, Freda is a Licensed Avionics Engineer with Salus Aviation, bringing international experience, resilience, and determination to the team every day. Her journey into aviation maintenance has not been straightforward, but it is one defined by perseverance, growth, and an unwavering belief in pursuing the career she loves.

A Passion for Aviation from the Beginning

Freda earned a Bachelor of Science in Avionics Technology and obtained her Civil Aviation Authority - Philippines licence in the same year. She began her career as an Avionics Instructor at the Asian College of Aeronautics — a role that held special meaning for her.

“Becoming a teacher fulfilled my mother’s dream for me,” Freda says.

From there, she continued to grow in the industry, with a move to AirAsia Philippines as an Avionics Technician, later achieving her A320 rating and became certified to perform maintenance release on A320 CFM aircraft. Working in line maintenance, A-checks, and troubleshooting gave her valuable hands-on experience and helped build both her technical capability and confidence.

Then in 2023, Freda’s journey took an unexpected turn.

Starting Again in New Zealand

Freda arrived in New Zealand with her nine-month-old son on a visitor visa, initially planning to spend time with family. During her stay, she realised New Zealand was where she wanted her son to grow up — and she became determined to continue building her aviation career here.

The transition was not easy.

“At one point, I was told that, as a woman in aviation, finding opportunities in New Zealand would be difficult and that I should consider healthcare instead,” Freda recalls.

Despite the discouragement, she refused to give up.

While continuing to pursue aviation opportunities, Freda took work in aged care in Auckland. Although far removed from aircraft maintenance, the experience became a meaningful chapter in her life.

“Caring for people in the final stages of life taught me compassion, patience, and resilience in a way I had never experienced before,” she says.

That resilience would eventually lead her back to aviation.

Returning to the Industry She Loves

In June 2024, Freda joined the Salus Aviation Avionics team.

Although her background was in fixed-wing aircraft, she embraced the opportunity to transition into the helicopter industry.

“Every day is a chance for me to learn something new, challenge myself, and continue growing in confidence,” she says.

For Freda, joining the team represented more than just another career step — it was the culmination of years of persistence and sacrifice.

“What motivates me to stay with the Avionics team is more than just my passion for aviation. It is also the feeling of finally being where I am meant to be.”

Women in Aviation: Breaking Through Challenges

As a woman working in aviation engineering, Freda hopes her story encourages others to believe there is a place for them in the industry.

Aviation maintenance has traditionally been male dominated, but Freda believes perseverance and passion matter far more than perception.

Her journey is also a reminder that success rarely comes without setbacks.

“One thing I’d like to share is that my journey was not easy,” she says. “Out of the 10 basic exams, I had to retake seven and passed them on my second attempt. That experience taught me that failure does not mean the end of your dream — it simply means you have to keep going.”

That mindset has carried her through career changes, migration challenges, motherhood, studying, and professional development.

Shortly after joining Salus Aviation, Freda achieved another major milestone by earning her NZCAA licence while balancing work and family life.

“Achieving our residency made it even more meaningful. It felt like all the hard work, resilience, and sacrifices had finally paid off.”

Growing with the Salus Aviation Avionics Team

Freda says one of the things she values most about working at Salus Aviation is the culture within the Avionics team.

“We may be a small team, but there is a strong sense of support, trust, and teamwork in the way we work together.”

That collaborative environment has helped the team grow stronger and more resilient, while continuing to adapt to the rapid advancements in avionics technology, particularly the shift toward more digital and integrated systems.

One project Freda is especially proud of is completing the electrical and instrument assembly for the Soloy kits on Part 148.

“It gave me a strong sense of achievement and allowed me to deepen my knowledge and confidence,” she says.

Advice for Future Engineers

For anyone considering a career in aviation engineering — especially women entering the industry — Freda’s advice is simple:

Her story is a powerful example of determination, adaptability, and passion for aviation — and a reminder that there is more than one pathway into the industry.

At Salus Aviation, we’re proud to have people like Freda helping shape the future of aviation maintenance and inspiring the next generation of engineers along the way.