In our next installation of Quick Six, GE Aerospace sat down with Liam Richards, Operations Management Leadership Program (OMLP) & Early Careers Leader for Avio Aero. Richards has been with the company for nine years, starting off as an intern and then participating in Operations Management Leadership Program (OMLP). He's currently responsible for recruiting, engaging, and developing early career talent for Avio Aero.
Richards is also an active member of the Pride Alliance, an employee resource group (ERG) at GE Aerospace. As a member of this ERG, he's able to be his authentic self and uplift and support others who are also members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
What inspired you to join GE Aerospace, and did you always envision yourself working in Aviation?
From the moment I took my first flight as a little boy, my passion for aviation took flight. The allure of soaring through the skies became an irresistible fascination, captivating my heart and igniting an insatiable curiosity for the world of flight. My passion for aviation inspired me to study aerospace engineering with pilot studies at university.
Photos curtesy of Liam Richards.
What motivates you in your work? What do you enjoy about it most?
My motivation lies in the gratifying role of coaching and developing young talents, nurturing their skills, and guiding them towards growth. Being able to witness their progress brings me immense fulfillment, and I strive to empower and inspire the next generation of diverse minds that can rise to the challenges of tomorrow, to make a world that works better for all of us.
What motivated you to get involved with the Pride Alliance?
Being part of the Pride Alliance ERG not only allows me to surround myself with individuals who share similar experiences and perspectives, but also provides a supportive community where I can authentically express myself, celebrate diversity, and discuss equality opportunities. I first became involved with the Pride Alliance when I was denied the opportunity to donate blood because of my sexuality. That perhaps was the first time I faced discriminated and hence wanted to talk with others who may have had a similar experience.
How has joining the GE Aerospace Pride Alliance lifted you up?
The Pride Alliance has provided me with a supportive community where I have forged deep and meaningful friendships with amazing colleagues globally. It's also provided me opportunities to take on leadership roles such as serving as the Pride Alliance Co-Chair for GE Aerospace and Avio Aero, and I&D Council Strategy Leader for Avio Aero.
What does allyship mean to you?
Allyship means listening, learning, and empathizing with others' experiences, and using one's privilege and platform to amplify marginalized voices to promote positive change. True allyship requires ongoing self-education, humility, and a commitment to taking action.
If you could give anyone advice who wants to pursue your line of work, what would you tell them?
Let your passion be the guiding force that ignites greatness in yourself and inspires others to reach for the stars. When we channel that passion into inspiring and nurturing the next generation of talent, we create a ripple effect of motivation, innovation, and positive change.
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