ALUMNI AVENUE – From Small Engines to Big Iron – Alistair in His Own Words
A career that began with small engines grows into something larger!
If you ask Alistair where his confidence with tools came from, he’ll credit a combination of early curiosity, a supportive dad, and the hands-on learning environment he found at Bendix Academy.
Today he works as both a welder and locomotive engine technician, building a career on skills that began with small engines — and grew into something much larger than he expected.
“Anybody could do it — and I realized I could do it too.” – Alistair
Curiosity Sparks — and Bendix Lights the Pilot Flame
Like many students, Alistair grew up watching his dad work with tools and machinery. That interest simmered quietly, but Bendix Academy gave him the place where interest became action.
“Growing up and seeing Dad use tools got some interest going, and Bendix filled the gap. I was most interested in the small-engines class — I wanted to know what made them work.”
The day he took apart an engine, reassembled it, and heard it run again shifted something important.
“Anybody could do it — and I realized I could do it too.”
Confidence Is Built With Both Hands
Alistair didn’t limit himself to just one skill area. He enjoyed woodworking too and still displays his wooden bowl on a shelf in his living room.
He learned a little at home, but Bendix added something he considers essential: confidence through guided repetition.
“I didn’t know how to do these things before, but Bendix gave me confidence. Learning with guidance on the first try really matters.”
That confidence traveled with him beyond class.
Small Engines → Big Projects
Soon he was rebuilding engines on his own, swapping motors on go-karts and mini bikes, and eventually upgrading dirt bikes and tackling Jeep projects.
“Those were my main two projects — more or less inspired by things I learned at Bendix.”
His Jeep became his rolling classroom:
- Suspension lift
- Axle work
- Transmission rebuilt
- Multiple clutch replacements
And the very first lesson he learned at Bendix? Still in use!
“My first class was about bolts — the grades of hardware and what they can be used for. I still use that every day.”
Aviation Opens the Door
Engine work eventually led him toward aviation through Kitty Hawk, after involvement with a model airplane club and the Hamburg Fliers. When he learned that youth could help rebuild a real B-25 bomber, his path gained momentum.
“I wanted to work on airplanes, but I didn’t know how. What I learned at the Academy showed me I could actually work on planes!”
Hands-on opportunities with real aircraft convinced him that working with his hands was his future. Though others nudged him toward engineering, Alistair discovered where he truly thrived — applied skill, not theory alone.
Ahead of the Curve
During COVID he began working on cars professionally, then moved into community college studies in automotive service and welding. His background gave him a noticeable advantage.
“Many students were working with machines for the first time, and I already had the basics. It let me jump right in.”
He credits what he learned at Bendix Academy with giving him the practical comfort level that changed his trajectory.
Welding, Problem-Solving & Helping Others
Today Alistair volunteers his skills when others need help — from alternators and roadside repairs to welding jobs.
“It’s rewarding to have something you’ve worked for, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.”
Welding became another foundational skill — thanks initially to Kitty Hawk — and it eventually led him to his current professional roles, where he works with large-scale locomotive engines and continues to develop advanced welding skills including MIG and other processes.
Words for the Next Generation
If a middle- or high-school student wondered whether Bendix was worth trying, Alistair’s message is simple:
“If you have any interest in toolmanship, definitely go to Bendix. It really gets the ball rolling.”
Looking Ahead
Alistair plans to keep learning, doing, and building — staying close to the work that excites him most.
“I’ve tried electrical and plumbing, but engines are my favorite.”
From small engines on workbenches…
to massive engines on steel rails…
Alistair’s journey shows exactly what early hands-on experience can unlock:
🔧 Skill
🛠️ Confidence
🚀 Direction
And it all started with the courage to take something apart — and put it back together again.
“It’s rewarding to have something you’ve worked for, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.” – Alistair
“I didn’t know how to do these things before, but Bendix gave me confidence. Learning with guidance on the first try really matters.” – Alistair
Toolmanship’s Impact
It’s always a pleasure for Todd, the founder of Bendix Academy, to run into Alistair around town. Recently, the two had the chance to catch up, reminiscing about the past and sharing insights on the powerful journey Alistair has had since his time at the Academy (see photo left).
Alistair’s visits to Bendix Academy during events are always a highlight. He takes the time to engage with students, offering a rare and valuable perspective on how the toolmanship skills learned at the Academy are still shaping his career today. His stories are more than just reflections of personal success; they serve as a testament to the transformative impact Bendix Academy has had on his life and the lives of countless others.
We’re incredibly grateful for Alistair’s continued support and for the way he exemplifies the long-lasting influence of our programs. His commitment to the craft and the community is a powerful reminder that the lessons learned here resonate far beyond the classroom — shaping careers, strengthening communities, and inspiring the next generation of makers for years to come.
Please contact us at toolmen@bendixacademy.org for any questions,
or click below to submit an application to become a student!
