Charlie Costello joined the Performance Review Institute (PRI) as a Nadcap auditor in 2017, having seen at close quarters what the role entailed. He previously worked for an aerospace company which PRI regularly audited, over 15 years. “I liked the Nadcap approach to audits,” he says.

Based in Florida, and with 40 years’ experience in chemical processing and aviation quality services, he conducts audits for PRI throughout the US, Canada, and Europe.

“It is a great role-choice for those who enjoy travel, and meeting new people with shared interests,” he explains. Charlie says being an independent contractor means he can choose when to work and can set his own schedule for each job. He values the flexibility this gives him to fit work around his personal life.

Although Auditors work independently and alone, that doesn’t mean they are unsupported. PRI office staff are always available by phone or email to provide support and information. Charlie says he finds them easy to work with, professional and responsive.

Charlie plans his audits to start at 9am each day, and end at around 4pm, allowing him time to return to the hotel and do more work in the evening, including preparation for the following day. But things don’t always go to plan. Days can sometimes be long, particularly, “if the auditee hasn’t prepared thoroughly before I get on site,” he says.

“Life as an auditor could be for you if you have got detailed industry knowledge and a genuine interest in quality and safety,” says Charlie. “It’s something you can be proud of, because you can play an important role in keeping passengers safe.”