Because maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) labor is predicted to soon become scarce, Florida-based Paz Aviation recently took the initiative to offer strategies on finding and keeping qualified professionals in the field.

Among the reasons for the anticipated shortage are rapid developments in technology — necessitating updated and ongoing training — and an expansion in fleet numbers, requiring extra hands at MRO facilities.

Consequently, Paz Aviation principal and Chief Financial Officer Brendan Campbell, who has a bachelor’s degree in management and an MBA in finance, has shared advice for hiring, suggesting both HR procedures and policy plans for the benefit of industry stakeholders.

Seeking top talent can be much more efficient by posting job openings online; Campbell recommends Monster.com. Playing up the aspect of a steady paycheck and job security to attract current contractual and/or temporary workers is also a plus, accompanied by good pay and benefits. Incentives and bonuses don’t hurt, either.

Additionally, Campbell said, promoting the benefits of signing on with a fairly small MRO can work to a firm’s advantage as prospective employees recognize the potential for growth and ease of setting advancement goals within the company.

To maximize the radius for scouting, Campbell also suggests contacting George T. Baker Aviation Technical College in Miami. Several airlines and MROs partner with technical schools to develop human resources by engaging technicians in training.

“Working with technical schools is a great way to develop a pipeline for new employees and get positive exposure,” he said. “It’s something we may consider for the future.”

Once a firm establishes a secure work force, maintaining staff morale is more attainable if companies cultivate a culture of employee appreciation — acknowledging work anniversaries and sponsoring special events, for example.

“These initiatives seem to be working for us, so I wanted to share them with my industry colleagues,” Campbell said.

Paz Aviation, established in 1991, is based in Hialeah, Florida. It offers FAA-approved avionics parts, services and solutions.