Slobodan Marinkovic is Serbian, working in Magnetic Engine shop as workshop manager – and he's highly valued here because of his extensive experience. Our Marketing and Communication Specialist Akvile sat down with him, so we could learn more about the path that led him to Tallinn and how does it feel to be Yoda of Magnetic. Akvile Vzesniauskaite: Slobodan, let's kick this off with you telling me how long have you been part of MMRO family? What was the path that led you here? Slobodan Marinkovic: I am with Magnetic for a bit over than three years – and in Tallinn for a bit over than two years. I've started working remotely but moved here eventually. Before I was working in Belgrade – actually, I was working with Zoran Bozic, our business unit manager, so we know each other for many years. At Magnetic, I am Engine POS holder, and EASA recognises me. This means all of the engines in our department is under my watch. I worked in this industry for many years, but joining Magnetic MRO somehow happened naturally – the same applies to the relocation too.
AV: What did you know about Magnetic before you joined? How has this image changed since you joined? SM: Yes, I knew a lot of Magnetic people from a while back, so I was aware of what the company does – and I've seen it growing! When it comes to Magnetic image I had, my perception changed during those years I am here – in some case for better, in other cases for worse. I think a lot of big companies have some operational issues – but I am glad to see Magnetic is tackling those issues and always strive for improvement. This is what I expected from this company – and this is what I get.
AV: What about the most exciting tasks in your daily job – what are those? And what are the biggest challenges in your line of work? SM: Well, the easiest and same time quite exciting part of my work is reviewing paperwork – but it takes quite an area and some concentration, as even one number matters. So this can be both interesting and challenging.
Same with training others – it can be both exciting and challenging when you have to share your experience with others, teach them and oversee their progress.
AV: Sounds like you are sort of Yoda in Engine workshop! I bet people often come to you for some advice. What about other people who are not working in the aviation industry? What are the most common questions people are asking when you say you are working in MRO? SM: Of course, everyone always likes to know ALL about the engines in a few hours. Possible not that is (laughs). Honestly, people often have a totally wrong opinion how aircraft flies or what engine is and how it works – so sometimes I feel like I am telling science fiction story when I try to explain how things work!
AV: I am sure it's both challenging and fun to share your experience. Moving back to Magnetic and people working here, what would you name as the most valuable skill (or skills) in your position? What type of people you'd be looking forward to joining your team? SM: Experience is probably one of the essential things in my position. Aviation – and engines – has to be your passion. And so when we are looking for people for our team, we look for both experience and passion for what we do.
AV: I can imagine this work would be extremely difficult without a passion for aviation! It requires attention each day. Is there such a thing as a typical day in this industry? SM: There is no such thing as a typical day here! Each day is different – I can be working in the field in some location anywhere in the world, working in the shop or working on paperwork – or answering emails. Also, each day I am learning – even with my experience, there are still new problems, new cases and new things to learn!
AV: Sounds dynamic! Tell us about the coolest or most exciting project you worked on? SM: Establishing a new shop was my primary target and one of the exciting projects – and I am happy with what we have achieved!
AV: Sounds like a significant achievement indeed! Besides this, what's the most memorable moment from Magnetic? SM: I would think a business trip to China, to one location close to the board with Vietnam, was one worth to remember. It was a very long trip followed by problems with accommodation – apparently, when we checked it on Google Maps, it looked well location-wise. But it wasn't – from now on, I would always remember not to trust Google Maps completely. All such experiences make great memories, though!
AV: I agree! What about your free time? Since working in engine workshop is always dynamic, is there any unique hobbies and interests that help you to wind down? SM: I used to have two hobbies – basketball and table tennis. But right now, I enjoy funny videos on YouTube. That's relaxing for me! But I am still a big basketball fan – it's a big sport in Serbia, as well as in Lithuania – so whenever I meet someone from Vilnius office, I know at least one topic we can talk about!
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