If girls run the world, Kaitlynn is definitely doing her part. Kaitlynn Kirk is located in Acton, CA. She spends her work day as a Pyroshock Technician at an aerospace testing facility. Not only that, in her free time she runs a business that teaches women how to ride dirt bikes. Her company is called Women’s Dirt Bike Training Academy!
WHAT IS A PYROSHOCK TECHNICIAN?
If you’re curious what exactly a Pyroshock Technician is, you’re not the only one.
A Pyroshock Technician is someone who deals with pyroshock testing and study in various industries such as aerospace, automotive, and defense. The word “Pyroshock” refers to the shockwaves generated by explosive events, such as pyrotechnic releases or separations in spacecraft or missile systems. These shockwaves can potentially damage sensitive equipment or affect the performance of critical systems. That’s why Kaitlynn is there to prevent problems before they happen!
“I found my job on a whim but since I started, I have excelled at what I do.”
WHAT DOES THE ROLE OF A PYROSHOCK TECHNICIAN LOOK LIKE?
Unfortunately, getting the inside scoop on the daily routine of a Pyroshock Technician is pretty difficult.
“A lot of what I do is proprietary and confidential government and defense work. I shock customers with an air cannon or a drop tower to measure the forces and structural integrity. (I also work on) components for rockets, ISS, Orion Spacecraft, explosives, and a lot of other cool stuff I can’t talk about.”
FROM DIRT BIKE RIDING TO SHATTERED ANKLES
Over three years ago, Kaitlynn’s life changed forever. She shattered her fibula and tibia on both legs while riding her dirt bike. Despite a long road to recovery, Kaitlynn’s spirit never left her.
“I never gave up, and I’m never gonna stop reaching for the stars. I earned my scars because I never let them slow me down.”
GETTING BACK ON THE HORSE (AKA BIKE)
Being a blue collar worker, founder, and avid dirt bike rider takes a toll on your body. Kaitlynn mentioned how work boots played a massive role in her recovery and daily movement.
“I wear my thorogood boots every day, I’ve tried many other shoes, and everything hurts. I have MINIMAL pain wearing my thorogood 8” boots.”
“The 8” boots support my ankles and hardware installed in my ankles.”
With patience, determination, and Thorogood’s 8” American Heritage Safety Toe work boots by her side - Kaitlynn has managed to ride bikes again and grow in her career despite not one, but two broken ankles.
BEING A BLUE COLLAR WOMAN
Like most tradeswomen, Kaitlynn has had her fair share of comments, assumptions, and setbacks as a woman in a field predominantly occupied by men.
“As a woman in a male dominated field of work, I have struggled with prejudice and sexist stereotypes. I have learned to do my job to the best of my ability everyday regardless of what people say. Their opinions don’t matter.”
ADVICE FOR OTHER ASPIRING PYROSHOCK TECHNICIAN, FOUNDERS, DIRT BIKE ADVOCATES, AND WOMEN IN THE TRADES?
When we asked, Kaitlynn had some great guidance to help someone looking to take an untraditional path with their career or hobbies.
“The only advice I can offer is work hard, own up to your mistakes, don’t make the same mistake twice, and don’t apologize for something you didn’t do.”
For more information on Kaitlynn's story and her dirt bike company, click the button below!