Head of Aviation Health Unit

Head of Aviation Health Unit - Dr Ray Johnston

What do you do when your two lifelong passions are aviation and medicine? Back in 1990, Dr Ray Johnston saw a way to combine them. Having been a physician in a hospital, where he specialised in diabetes and blood clotting, he joined our Aeromedical Centre as a Medical Officer – one of a team of specialists assessing the fitness of applicants for pilot and air traffic control officer licences.

“I thought the CAA might be a bit stuffy, but my views changed immediately,” he recalls. “I found a world-class employer encouraging me to realise my potential - I’m a prime example of someone who was given the opportunity to develop.”

He cites the support he got when completing his diploma in aviation medicine and his MBA, which has greatly broadened his knowledge within the medical business environment. He received the same support when it came to career progression. “Since joining, I’ve been able to cover most aspects of the medical function, including managing Occupational Health. I was totally encouraged to progress, gain experience in all the departments and get to the top of my profession. I’ve also gained my Private Pilot’s Licence,” he adds proudly.

In his aviation job today, Ray runs the Aviation Health Unit, which is a centre of expertise for aviation health matters. The unit offers advice to air passengers and crew, identifies and researches potential aviation health concerns, provides technical input on an international scale and acts as a focus for public enquiries.

“My main role is to raise the profile of the unit – and by extension the CAA itself,” he says. “That involves everything from optimising the website to advising the secretary of state.”

“It’s great environment,” Ray enthuses. “A close-knit community – intellectually stimulating – intelligent people sharing opinions and knowledge on all different areas. It’s the wide range of people and professions working together that makes it so exciting – you’ll be amazed by the sheer variety of opportunities here.

“It’s really a great organisational culture. There’s a total balance between work and life. The organisation truly invests in its people – being responsive to individuals’ requests for areas of development adds value both to the individual and to the business. Also, the remuneration package is fantastic.”

In terms of his own career, Ray feels he has achieved his goals. “I’ve reached the place where I want to be – but there are always opportunities to learn more within this profession.”

And his advice for others looking to further their careers with the CAA? “You need to be proud of working for such a great organisation. You need to believe in its mission and its values. Believe in something and you’ll succeed in it.”