Lynden is recognizing employees who make a difference every day on the job and demonstrate our core values, Lynden's very own everyday heroes! Employees are nominated by managers and supervisors from all roles within the Lynden family of companies.
Introducing James Schneider, Director of Maintenance at Lynden Air Cargo in Anchorage, Alaska. 
Name: James Schneider
Company: Lynden Air Cargo
Location: Anchorage, AK
Title: Director of Maintenance
On the Job Since: 1997
Superpower: Attention to detail
Hometown: Inver Grove Heights, MN
Favorite Movie: Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
Bucket List Destination: The Seychelles plus Cape Town Suid and Stellenbosch, South Africa, Adriatic Coast of Italy, plus Venice and the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.
For Fun: Moto GP and IMSA racing, fast motorcycles, high-performance sports cars, live music, and traveling to areas with warm sand, blue water and sunshine.
How and when did you start working for Lynden Air Cargo?
I started working at Lynden Air Cargo in 1997 when the airline started. I was invited to come across the field from Northern Air Cargo and help “start an airline” by mentor Mr. Jerry Vink – how do you do that, says I? We’ll figure it out says he!
What is a typical day like for you?
Very dynamic, can be likened to a vortex, rate of speed directly proportional to number and variety of operations under way. Sucked in in the morning, ejected in the late afternoon, maybe upside-down, it depends. Not every day is like that, but many in any given week or month over the course of the last 27-plus years.
What has been most challenging in your career?
Figuring out how to guide and direct a maintenance operation that is subject to the challenges of a fleet of legacy all-cargo aircraft that operate in some of the most austere locations on earth.
What are you most proud of in your career?
Managing the challenges previously noted, as well as fostering the relationships with our Maintenance Repair Organizations, most notably our 25+ year relationship with ST Engineering Defence Aviation Services in Singapore.
Can you tell us about your family and growing up years?
Being the second son in a family of seven children (five boys and two girls) I was generally the one who was into the mischief, bless your souls Mom and Dad for putting up with me. My father held a day job and was a musician on weekend nights for as long as I can remember. He was also a DIY guy and took care of most things. My eldest brother has carried on Dad’s musical tradition playing gigs regularly as well as owning/maintaining English sports cars, like Dad’s. My mother was the strength in all of us, as well as admired (feared) in the neighborhood; pretty sure I got my superpower from her as she never missed anything! She would not take no for an answer (too easy), worked a full-time job when the elders were capable of watching after the youngers, and made sure we always had what we needed, most importantly her support.
What was your first job?
Pumping gas and helping with maintenance on automobiles at Miles Deep Rock, a landmark in Inver Grove Heights, where much of the mischief may have originated. I was known to associate with a misfit or three…
What would surprise most people about you?
My love for music runs deep and is steeped in the roots of my childhood; a good dose everyday helps me keep my sanity. And yes, I do enjoy the talents of Ms. Taylor Swift and have attended the Eras Tour, in Singapore no less.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Keeping up with my wife and teenage daughter (Class of `25) and a never-ending pre-retirement task list on the home front.
What do you like best about your job?
The opportunities it has provided me to travel the world over the years, experiencing a variety of cultures, getting to know a diverse group of folks and creating memories that last a lifetime. When I speak of my job and my travels to most people outside of work, they cannot fathom the length and breadth. I’ve been extremely fortunate and blessed to be a part of the Lynden family!
Topics from this blog: Lynden Lynden Air Cargo Lynden Employees Everyday Heroes Featured