As far as I'm concerned Aviation is like an orange. We're all segments, fitting together just like an orange. If one segment is missing then it ain't an orange. Similarily, we need Pilots, Loaders Lav Dumpers and yes ourselves.
However due to the varous authorities (Initially) being full of ex Service flight ops people it's natural that they would tend to favour their own. Also thanks to a few wars the general public is accustomed to Pilots being "Square jawed, steely eyed superheroes"
For a different viewpoint have a look at this article in Business & Commercial Aviation
http://www.aviationnow.com/content/p...ment/mgt01.htm
If the link is confused, it's called "Wrenching Command"
I've always made an effort to get on with Apprentices, loaders, cleaners and pilots. This has resulted in any time the aircraft was damaged, I was informed FIRST!!
But I DO get really peeved over the pay differentials with pilots!!!