60 Seconds with Kelly Powell

What is your role?

I work in the Dunstable Head Office as a Client Executive in the exciting aerospace department. I work alongside Tomasz Golebiewski, Aerospace Certification Manager where my role is to be the main point of contact for our UK based clients and assessors.

I’m here to support the NQA team and help with any queries within the scheme. I am also responsible for keeping the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) OASIS portal up to date for our suppliers and assessors. This online portal contains a list of suppliers who are certified/registered under the IAQG rules to be in compliance with the aerospace quality management system requirements (9100 series). I also carry out this work within our 6 offices across India.

Most memorable moment at work?

I really enjoy being able to socialise with my colleagues. At NQA there are plenty of opportunities, like Christmas parties and conferences where you get to see a completely different side to the people that you spend every day with. I think one of my most memorable moments is actually from our last annual UK conference in January 2018 where we were all taught how to dance the Scottish Ceilidh dance and it was the funniest thing I’ve ever seen!

Favourite thing about working for NQA?

NQA offer a brilliant work/life balance. You’ll find that the staff work really hard and I believe that’s because there is also an emphasis on our life outside of work too and it’s obvious when you look at everyone’s motivation.

There is a real positive and family orientated vibe, with many offices you’ll find cliques but we actually all get along and work together to achieve the goals and objectives of the company. It’s a great atmosphere. 

Top tip for people looking at certification?

It seems like an obvious point but it would be to make sure that you have a copy of the standard and know the standard requirements against what you already have in place. This might actually save you a lot of time and money if you know what you need to achieve.

Many of our clients find that they actually already do certain things which are fully compliant without even realising. It’s also a great idea to fill out a Gap Analysis so you’re ready for your visits and can fix any issues before your auditor arrives. 

How might you be able to help our readers?

I have been with NQA since June 2017 but have been in the Aerospace industry for 16 years providing in-depth information and guidance on the Aerospace standards. I’ll try to answer any questions you have and can provide clarity on complex documents.