Riadel Manzano, born on March 15, 1987, in East Williston, New York, has been an accomplished aircraft mechanic for over a decade. A graduate of W. T. Clarke High School and Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance in 2009, specializing in advanced avionics systems, composite materials, and engine overhaul techniques.
Riadel’s career began at Horizon Regional Airlines in Albany, where she worked as a Junior Aircraft Mechanic from 2010 to 2014. She then joined Northeast Commuter Airways in White Plains as a Maintenance Specialist, earning the “Excellence in Aircraft Safety” award in 2016. Since 2018, she has been a Senior Aircraft Mechanic at Skyline Airlines at LaGuardia Airport, where she oversees complex maintenance operations and ensures aircraft safety compliance.
Dedicated to continuous learning, Riadel has completed advanced certifications, including FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) and Composite Materials Repair. She is an active member of Women in Aviation International and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, and she supports STEM education initiatives and mentorship programs.
Beyond her career, Riadel enjoys traveling, hiking, and building model airplanes. She treasures time with her close-knit family, including her parents, Carlos and Maria, her software engineer brother Marco, and her nurse sister Elena.
Riadel’s story is one of perseverance and passion, proving that the sky is truly the limit for women in aviation.
What motivates you when things get tough?
I think about the passengers and crews who rely on safe flights. Their safety motivates me to push through challenges. I also draw strength from my family, who taught me the value of perseverance and hard work.
Tell us 3 surprisingly easy and 3 surprisingly difficult things about your business.
Surprisingly easy:
Developing a sense of pride in the work—there’s satisfaction in knowing I contribute to safe flights.
Connecting with others in the aviation community who share the same passion.
Mentoring young women—it’s easy to share my knowledge because I genuinely care.
Surprisingly difficult:
Managing the physical demands of the job, like working in tight spaces or extreme weather.
Keeping up with ever-evolving technology in aviation maintenance.
Handling unexpected delays due to supply chain issues.
What are the 3 things you like the least about your work and why?
The irregular hours, which sometimes make family time challenging.
The pressure of tight deadlines, though I’ve learned to thrive under them.
The occasional stigma women face in a male-dominated field—it’s frustrating but motivates me to prove what I’m capable of.
What are your greatest 3 skills and how have they helped you succeed?
Attention to detail: It ensures safety and reliability in my work.
Problem-solving: It helps me tackle unexpected issues efficiently.
Communication: It allows me to collaborate effectively with teams and pass on knowledge to mentees.
Tell us about a time where you saw a surprising outcome that you did not expect.
While mentoring a high school student, I saw her grow from hesitant to confident, eventually earning a STEM scholarship. It was rewarding to witness how encouragement can transform someone’s path.
Have you considered buying a business? Tell us about that experience.
I’ve thought about opening an aviation maintenance training center. It’s still a distant idea, but I’ve started researching what it would take. My goal would be to focus on empowering women in STEM careers.
What is a habit you try to stick to and how has it helped you?
I practice journaling daily. Reflecting on my day helps me learn from challenges and keep a clear mind.
What are 3 of your goals (could be a mix of personal and professional)?
Build a scholarship program for women in aviation.
Travel to at least 10 new countries to explore aviation history.
Expand my skillset by learning about electric and hybrid aircraft maintenance.
Who is your favorite motivational speaker and why?
Brené Brown—her focus on courage and vulnerability resonates with me, especially as someone who’s had to navigate challenges in a male-dominated field.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Believe in your abilities and don’t let fear hold you back. The aviation world might seem intimidating, but you belong here.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If yes, what is the best way to reach you?
Absolutely! The best way to reach me is through my LinkedIn or email—mentorship is something I’m deeply passionate about.
Just for fun, what is your favorite ice cream flavor?
Pistachio—it’s a little unique, just like me!