Yellowknife (Feb 03/06) - Nefertiti Lang has worn numerous hats during her professional life, but this time, she knows it is a perfect fit.

Lang is an aircraft structure technician for 440 Squadron in Yellowknife.

She has lived here for more than two years now and loves every moment of her Northern life and job.

While working on Twin Otters or other aircraft may seem like a non-traditional occupation for some women, Lang is right at home under the wings of both the squadron and the airplanes.

"I've worked as a legal secretary, in cartography and as a fish and wildlife officer among other jobs," Lang said.

"But I was always getting bored with my job. With this though, it is fascinating.

"It's always a challenge and there are always things to learn."

On any given day, Lang can be found behind a sewing machine, welding or even fabricating shiny metal containers for various equipment.

"It's a combination metal technician, refinisher and a machinist," Lang said.

When repairs have to be done on the airplane, such as the skin, ribs or landing gear, Lang is the woman for the job.

"At times, you have to manufacture parts," she said.

"There is more opportunity to have some artistic input into it, that's nice."

While this is a big draw for her, she admits she's a bit of an exception and estimates that out of the approximately 480 aircraft structure technicians across Canada, only about 20 are women.

"You're the expert for the aircraft. You're your own boss, but then if you make a mess, then you've got to clean it up," said Lang, laughing.

"For some people, it's not a good experience for them. They can't handle that type of pressure. But I love being here, the people are great and everyone helps everyone out. You don't find that so much in a bigger place."