Meet David, the one who keeps GSE moving at WFS Express Toledo
David Dodd Jr has always felt connected to tools and machines, having grown up watching his two grandfathers work in their shops. He just loves fixing things.
David Joseph Dodd Jr, GSE Mechanic, WFS Express (Toledo)
After serving in the US Navy, where his focus was on aviation structural mechanics, David continued his career at Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) in Toledo.
WFS is a key player in cargo operations at Toledo Express Airport in Ohio. Part of the WFS Express Toledo Team is David, a Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Mechanic who is responsible for keeping tarmac equipment in tip-top shape.
What a GSE Mechanic does
David has worked as a GSE Mechanic at WFS Toledo Express for four years now. He is responsible for repairing and keeping in good condition all GSE at the airport, such as tow tractors, diesel engines, and complex hydraulic systems.
Airport operations may be subjected to costly delays if GSE malfunctions. "Without proper maintenance, everything grinds to a halt. My job is to make sure the tarmac equipment is safe and reliable so that cargo flights can continue running smoothly,” he stresses.
David is responsible for maintaining and repairing tarmac equipment
On a typical workday, David can be seen carrying out preventative maintenance tasks, identifying machine issues, and troubleshooting problems on a wide range of engines like Cummins, Detroit Diesel, and Ford. Recently, David has also been diving into something new. “I've just begun working with Scania engines,” he says. “They’re new for me, but I welcome the challenge.”
In his work, it’s not just knowledge that gets the job done. It’s also about the right tools. "I have a rather large toolbox," he chuckles. “It’s packed with everything I might need to get the job done. The right tools make all the difference.”
Challenges and rewards
For David, he is happy to be ’the one who fixes problems’
David’s work environment is far from glamorous. “It’s dirty, greasy, and sometimes involves heavy lifting,” he admits.
A GSE Mechanic’s job is also physically demanding. David spends long hours on his feet, bending, standing, and working in sometimes uncomfortable positions. Plus, he works alone most of the time.
But he gets through because of his passion for the job and his support system. Every day at work is reminiscent of his childhood when he used to play at his grandfather’s shop. On tough days, David appreciates the support of his team. He reflects, “There is always something new to learn from everyone you meet. The people I have worked with have taught me so much.”
Hence, even though the work may be greasy and dirty, David admits he enjoys the ride. “There’s nothing better than knowing I’m the person who fixes the problem.”
Would he recommend the job to someone else? “Absolutely,” David quickly answers. "If you enjoy fixing things and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, it’s a perfect fit."
Safety at work
Safety is a priority at WFS and the SATS Group, and for David, working on the tarmac requires constant mindfulness.
The tarmac is filled with heavy equipment and inclement weather is a frequent problem. Knowing this, David doesn’t go to work without wearing all the necessary safety gear—from earplugs to reflective vests and proper work boots.
“I make sure that I end the day the way it should be—with every one of us going home safe,” David says.
David makes sure he is wearing safety gear before working on any GSE
David’s role as a GSE Mechanic is all about keeping things moving—literally. From making sure the tractors work properly to maintaining cargo trucks, his work is crucial to the smooth cargo operations of WFS at Toledo Express Airport.
When he’s not at work, you’ll find David at home spending time with his three daughters or at the track doing drag racing—still working with engines but on his own terms.