GE would not be the company it is today without its employees. From working mothers to U.S. military veterans, GE has a diverse team that should be recognized and celebrated. So, we created a series called the “Quick Six”—six questions we are asking employees to help us learn about their talents and backgrounds.
Paul Tucker, who works engine assembly, has been through a lot and seen a lot in his 30+-year stint at GE Aviation in Lynn – including becoming a GE celebrity.
How did you get started at GE and when?
One year after graduating from East Coast Aero Tech school with a FAA airframe and powerplant license, I applied for a job at GE in Lynn. In Sept. 1982, I was hired, and my first assignment was as a steam turbine assembler for what turned out to be the last of the CVN aircraft carrier turbines.
How would you best describe your GE career?
Throughout my 30 years at GE, my jobs have been enjoyable and valid learning experiences. It’s cool to know you’re working on the leading edge of aviation technology. My work in development assembly and test has been the most exciting and challenging. I’m proud of the recognition awards received for my involvement in first-engine-to-tests.
Outside of work, I believe that community service is important. It not only benefits the public but assures personal growth. I’ve had the honor of serving on the Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School committee for 25 years.
What engines have you worked on, and how have they changed?
The jet engines I’ve worked on over the years include the T700, CF34-3, F414, CF34-10 and the T408. With new engines came new technology, processes and materials to improve weight and efficiency. What has remained constant is the modularity and overall commitment to making the best products for our customers.
One of the reasons I have great interest in aviation is my cousin is a retired military pilot (F-4/F-15) and former Commanding Officer of the USS Coral Sea aircraft carrier and he speaks very highly of our GE products.
Tell us about your “Hollywood” moment.
About 10 years ago, I was asked by my manager if I wanted to be in a GE TV commercial. So, me and several co-workers in Lynn ended up being featured. There were lights, cameras and action – two days of filming in assembly resulted in a national release of the commercial "GE Wrench." It was fun to watch the “bloopers” video.
If you didn’t end up working at GE, what would you have done and why?
Well, after I was laid off from GE many years ago, I worked as an inspector in a machine shop, did some precision grinding, assembly piecework and high school janitor. Thankfully I was hired back at GE. Having a career with GE certainly has improved my financial standing for my upcoming retirement.
What advice do you have for new manufacturing employees at GE Aviation?
New employees should recognize that the union-company relationship has been forged over many years. While there are fewer employees now than in the past, it should be remembered that working conditions and compensation were earned. Treating co-workers and supervisors with respect and professionalism will keep us on the road to continued success.
Did you know Quick Six is a series? Read our previous features:
- Quick Six with Omar Waller, software engineer in the Edison Engineering Development Program (EEDP).
- Quick Six with Christina Beer, Technical Product Owner for the GE Operations Advisor product suite in Cincinnati, OH.
- Quick Six with Dale Hughes, Assembly & Test Technician in Durham, NC
- Quick Six with Terrance Brand, Staff Engineer for GE Aviation in Hooksett, NH.
- Quick Six with Flavio Caciuffo, engineer at GE Aviation business, Avio Aero.
- Quick Six with Phil Woniger, Senior Account Sales Manager, at GE Aviation in Savannah, Georgia.
- GE Aviation’s Quick Six with Mike Bonacum, T901 Technology Maturation Leader at GE Aviation in Lynn, MA.
- GE Aviation’s Quick Six with David Burns, CIO of GE Aviation in Cincinnati, Ohio.
- Quick Six with Mike Bonacum, a T901 Technology Maturation Leader at GE Aviation in Lynn, MA.
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GE Aerospace is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, as well as integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft.
