Published May 4, 2026
Aaron Spear is the Republic Airways Manager of Maintenance at Reagan National in Washington, D.C. However, that’s not the only title he’s had while working here. In fact, Aaron has grown over the course of a 25-year career at Republic Airways from a Maintenance Technician to a supervisor and now, to the Manager at a major line base. Here’s what has kept Aaron at Republic Airways.
After 25 years, Aaron has learned one thing: no two days are the same. “It’s not an everyday job,” Aaron explains. “There’s always action somewhere, sometime.” That variety is what keeps him energized.
“We don’t specialize in any one area of the aircraft,” he says, “We specialize in the Embraer aircraft.” Being able to tackle interesting and novel challenges makes every day interesting and is one of the reasons why he’s stuck around.
At Republic Airways, Aircraft Technicians have many different avenues to grow their careers. There are Leadership roles, Supervisory roles, Quality Assurance roles, Maintenance Operation Center roles, Engineering roles and more.
For Aaron, this opportunity for growth helped take his career to where it is today. “Coming in as a Maintenance Technician and then moving all the way up through into a leadership role,” he says. “It’s a tree with many branches. It seems like there are always opportunities if you’re willing to reach out and grab them.”
There’s a clear winner when it comes to reasons Aaron has stayed at Republic Airways for 25 years: the culture. “The thing I enjoy most about Republic Airways is definitely the people that I meet. The connections that I make,” he says. “I’ve made lifelong friends.”
He also appreciates the events and causes he can support at Republic Airways. “I’ve participated in our Military outreach groups, several of our charitable organizations and the Plane Pull,” says Aaron. “Those things are personally rewarding and professionally expanding.”
At the end of the day, Aaron just appreciates the teamwork and camaraderie necessary to operate an airline. “Seeing that aircraft leave with passengers on it and knowing you’re getting them where they need to be, that’s an accomplishment. You are really part of something.”
His advice for anyone thinking about joining Republic Airways? “Get in. Don’t wait.” To learn more about joining Republic Airways and forging your own career path, click here.
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