For someone who spends a lot of time in the air, Stephen Paul is a very down-to-earth person! When he graduated from Duncraig in 1994 Stephen knew exactly what career path was the right one for him.
“From my early years in high school I knew that I wanted to get into flying and geared my studies throughout school towards this goal”, said Stephen.
“From St Stephen’s I went straight into an Aviation Degree at Edith Cowan University and flying training through The Royal Aero Club of WA.”
From these early days Stephen has had an exciting and varied career across a variety of aircraft.
“After I completed my degree, I worked as a charter and instructor pilot at RACWA for about 2 1/2 years before joining Qantas as a pilot on the Boeing 747,” said Stephen.
“Then in 2002 I moved from the 747 to the 767 and in 2014 I became a captain on the Boeing 737, a position I still hold today.”
“The best part is not having to sit behind a desk!” said Stephen.
“I really enjoy the travel and meeting and working with new people almost every day. I love the ever-changing view, the endless challenges and lack of a routine,” he said.
Fortunately, Stephen is able to balance a role that he loves with family life.
“Based out of Perth I fly throughout Australia and the region, and as the captain I’m responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the operation”, said Stephen.
“Over the years I’ve been an extremely keen skier, passionate traveller, occasional scuba diver, and frustrated golfer. Lately, too, I’ve developed a troubling addiction to long distance running which despite the obvious challenge, also presents an amazing way really appreciate the cities I travel to. These days however, most of my time, when I’m not traveling, is spent with my family.”
Stephen and his wife, Dayle, now live in Hillarys and their two children are both at the Duncraig ELC. It’s clear why Stephen made this choice for his own family.
“I think the school, above all, just helped to make me a genuinely decent person, a trait that some people sorely lack but can actually help you go a long way in life,” he said.
His advice to current students?
“Enjoy school as best you can. It’s a huge part of your life right now but so much more of your life lies ahead of you. Educate yourself about finance early but don’t let that prevent you from having fun. Never be afraid to try something new, change careers, or travel. There’s a huge world out there so don’t get stuck living a life that isn’t fulfilling.”
Thanks, Stephen, for sharing your story, and for organising the 30 year reunion for the Class of 1994!
