At Holmes Institute, our students don’t just learn from textbooks - they learn from industry pioneers. Meet Trevor Jensen, a seasoned aviator whose career spans more than five decades, multiple continents, and leadership roles in some of the world’s most respected airlines.
Today, Trevor brings his wealth of experience to the Bachelor of Aviation and Aviation Management programs at Holmes Institute, guiding the next generation of aviation professionals with wisdom, humour, and hard-earned insight.
A Career That Took Off Early
Trevor's aviation journey began in 1967, when he joined Qantas as a cadet pilot straight out of school. After 18 months of intensive training in Sydney, he earned his Commercial Pilot Licence and began flying a range of aircraft in Western Australia, clocking over 1,000 flight hours in just a year.
Returning to Qantas, he trained on the DC-3 before transitioning to the Boeing 707 and, by 1973, the newly introduced 747 - a plane that would come to define much of his career.
Flying the World and Leading It
Trevor’s career highlights are nothing short of remarkable. From flying humanitarian missions into Mogadishu and Turkey, to helping reintroduce scenic flights over Antarctica, his time in the cockpit was anything but ordinary. But his ambitions didn’t stop at flying.
He soon moved into senior management roles—including General Manager of Operations at Ansett, Head of Airline Operations at Qantas, and Chief Operating Officer at Aer Lingus. Along the way, he navigated major challenges, including the collapse of Ansett and the global grounding of aircraft during COVID-19.
His advice? “In aviation, every day is different—and that’s what makes it exciting. But it also means you must be ready to adapt, to lead, and to learn from every experience.”
Now Teaching the Future of Aviation
Today, Trevor shares that experience with students at Holmes Institute, where he lectures on aviation and airline management.
“Aviation is not just about flying. It’s a complex, global system and managing it takes more than just passion. You need to understand economics, legislation, safety, technology, and strategy,” he explains. “Our students learn how to think long-term - how to make decisions today for aircraft that might not arrive until 2032.”
From aircraft purchasing to yield management, cyber security, and sustainability, Trevor’s lessons go far beyond the theoretical. His stories offer real-world insight into an industry that connects the world and is constantly evolving.
Why Aviation Management Matters
“People often think aviation management is just for pilots,” says Trevor. “But it’s much broader than that. Every flight involves hundreds of roles - from ticketing and airport operations to engineering and customer service.”
He believes this holistic understanding is crucial, especially in a world where technological change, AI, and global uncertainty are reshaping the aviation landscape.
“Aviation is a business. If you’re in the cockpit of a $250 million aircraft, you’re managing more than a flight - you’re managing a complex operation.”
Advice for Future Aviation Professionals
Trevor’s message to students is simple but powerful: “Work hard, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to speak up. Great managers bring people together, listen to expertise, and always lead with purpose.”
And if he could go back and give his younger self one piece of advice?
“Learn more about finance. It’s one of the most critical parts of aviation management. You can be a great pilot or operations leader but understanding the economics behind every decision is what really sets you apart.”
Learn from the Best at Holmes Institute
Trevor’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and lifelong passion for aviation. At Holmes Institute, he now helps shape the future of the industry - one student at a time.
Whether you dream of flying, managing airlines, or transforming aviation through innovation, the Bachelor of Aviation and Bachelor of Aviation Management at Holmes Institute offers the tools, training, and mentorship to help you succeed.
Ready to take off?
Contact us today to learn more about our aviation programs and join a global community of professionals shaping the skies of tomorrow.
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