Advertise on podcast: The Vertical MRO Podcast

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode, Jon Gray moderates a timely panel discussion with industry leaders who come together for a wide-ranging conversation on what it truly takes to manage helicopter fleets in today’s MRO environment. Recorded at Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing’s facility in Kelowna, Canada, the discussion blends real-world operational experience with long-term thinking around people, aircraft, and organizational culture. The panel explores the continued importance of legacy aircraft, the pressures created by supply chain constraints, and how evolving technology is reshaping the way fleets are maintained and supported. Just as importantly, they reinforce that MRO is not simply a job—it’s a career built on experience, mentorship, and a commitment to continual learning. Labor challenges take center stage as the group discusses recruitment, retention, and the responsibility of developing the next generation of AMEs through shadowing, coaching, and real-world exposure. Networking and community are highlighted as essential tools in an industry where collaboration between operators often makes the difference between resilience and disruption. From fleet replacement strategies to mission equipment integration, this episode captures the complexity of modern helicopter MRO and reinforces a common theme: sustainable operations depend just as much on investing in people as they do in aircraft. Panelists featured in this episode include Sheri Totten of Boeing Distribution Services, Scott Hayward of Alpine Helicopters, Jan Booij of Skytek, and Bryan Eaton of Canadian Helicopters. Special thanks to our sponsors, Metro Aviation, Alpine Aerotech and Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, Jon Gray and co-host Howie Murray sit down with Brad Leonard, owner of KonectaUSA, and Dave Schilling, director of business development, to explore one of the quiet challenges facing modern maintenance operations: reliable connectivity inside the hangar. As MRO teams become increasingly digital—relying on tablets, cloud-based manuals, real-time collaboration, and GPS or satellite testing—poor signal coverage can quickly become a bottleneck. Brad and Dave explain why traditional connectivity often breaks down in hangar environments and how KonectaUSA’s solutions are designed specifically to support maintenance teams on the shop floor. The conversation dives into real-world use cases, including site surveys, installation challenges, and what it takes to ensure technicians can access critical information when and where they need it. Brad and Dave also share their own career paths and how working in aerospace has led them into some uniquely restricted environments, reinforcing how closely technology, infrastructure, and maintenance readiness are connected. This episode highlights how behind-the-scenes connectivity plays a growing role in efficiency, accuracy, and uptime—and why solving it is becoming essential for today’s MRO operations. Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Airbus and Vertical.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. This episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast was recorded on location at the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference in Kelowna, British Columbia. The MRO Conference in Kelowna featured six different panels where MRO professionals shared their expertise. In this panel conversation, John Gray brings together a multi-generational group of maintainers to reflect on the themes sparked by the Vertical MRO Conference: mentorship, communication, leadership, and the responsibility we have to the next wave of technicians. From brand-new apprentices to five-decade veterans, this discussion digs into how great shops are built—not just through technical skill, but through culture, trust, and shared purpose. This panel featured Taya Dejong, Mike Broderick, Howie Murray, Trish Bromely and Burt Potter. Taya and Trish talk candidly about entering the rotorcraft world, finding inspiration in each other, and navigating an industry they never knew existed when they were younger. Bert and Howie offer insight into supporting apprentices, creating healthy learning environments, and balancing small-shop culture with big-shop expectations. And Mike Broderick draws on 50 years in maintenance to share what true mentorship looks like, why passion matters, and how every mechanic becomes the backbone of mission success. This is a grounded, heartfelt look at what keeps the helicopter maintenance community strong—and what we can all do to support the next generation. Special thanks to our sponsors, Essential Turbines, Rotorcraft Support Inc, and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Jon Gray sits down with aviation veteran Terrence Eissfeldt, whose four-decade career spans from Okanagan Helicopters to founding Boundary Aviation Solutions his own consulting business. Terrence shares stories from his early days in the industry, his family’s deep aviation roots, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path from the hangar floor to leadership roles. The conversation explores how mentorship, trust, and community remain the cornerstones of aviation maintenance — even as technology, AI, and staffing challenges reshape the landscape. Terrence reflects on what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how maintainers can stay grounded while embracing the tools and innovations that will define the next generation of helicopter maintenance. With a focus on human connection, work-life balance, and passing on hard-won wisdom, this episode is a tribute to the people who keep rotorcraft flying safely and efficiently — and to the mentors who inspired them to do it well. Special thanks to our sponsors, Essential Turbines, Precision Aviation Group and Vertical Aviation International.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Jon Gray sits down with aviation veteran Terrence Eissfeldt, whose four-decade career spans from Okanagan Helicopters to founding Boundary Aviation Solutions his own consulting business. Terrence shares stories from his early days in the industry, his family’s deep aviation roots, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path from the hangar floor to leadership roles. The conversation explores how mentorship, trust, and community remain the cornerstones of aviation maintenance — even as technology, AI, and staffing challenges reshape the landscape. Terrence reflects on what’s changed, what hasn’t, and how maintainers can stay grounded while embracing the tools and innovations that will define the next generation of helicopter maintenance. With a focus on human connection, work-life balance, and passing on hard-won wisdom, this episode is a tribute to the people who keep rotorcraft flying safely and efficiently — and to the mentors who inspired them to do it well. Special thanks to our sponsors, Metro, Vertical Aviation International and Rotorcraft Support Inc. 

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode of Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Ronie, Scott, Terrence and Jon, along with producer and host David, reflect on the past year. We have an opportunity to discuss highlights, and the growth of the maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) community developed through the podcast and the Vertical MRO Conference. We also talk about the excitement surrounding the next generation of aviation professionals and the need for continued conversations promoting the maintenance community.  Lastly, we discuss what is exciting for 2026 as we look forward, sharing our hopes for the future of the industry and emphasizing the importance of investing in people and adopting new technology. Special thanks to our sponsors, SAFE Structure Designs, Vertical Aviation International and Airbus.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. Recorded live at the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference in Kelowna, British Columbia, this episode features a panel discussion on one of the industry’s most transformative topics: Technology and the future of rotorcraft maintenance. Hosted by Jon Gray, this conversation brings together Seth Hardage, CEO of Rotorcraft Repair and Manufacturing; Ronnie Ries, vice president of marketing at GPMS; and Joaquin DeMoreta, CEO and founder of Digital AirWare. Together, they explore how cutting-edge technologies — from health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) to predictive maintenance and digital data integration — are redefining how maintainers troubleshoot, prevent issues, and keep aircraft mission-ready. The panel dives into the changing role of technology in day-to-day maintenance, discussing how smarter tools and connected systems are improving efficiency, enhancing safety, and helping retain a new generation of technicians. From vibration analysis to data-driven diagnostics, the experts share how innovation is transforming rotorcraft maintenance from a reactive process to a predictive science — and why embracing technology is key to the industry’s future success. This live panel captures the spirit of collaboration and forward thinking that defined the Kelowna conference, where maintenance professionals, engineers, and innovators came together to shape what’s next for the rotorcraft maintenance, repair and overhaul community. Special thanks to our sponsors, Precision Aviation Group, Robinson Helicopter and Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.

Welcome to Vertical MRO Alerts, presented by Bell! In this Alert, Product Support Engineering Manager Marc Dubé is joined by Sebastien Rousseau, Product Lead for the Bell 429, to walk operators through two service directives released simultaneously—a new Alert Service Bulletin (ASB 429-25-69) and an accompanying Operational Service Notice (OSN). These directives address non-conforming crew and passenger seat covers installed on certain Bell 429 aircraft. Marc and Sebastien explain how additional foam added during cosmetic rework impacted the energy-attenuation performance of some crew seats, prompting a required crew-seat replacement under the ASB. Passenger seats, which carry lower criticality, are handled separately under the OSN. The episode covers operator questions Bell has already received—including how third-party-modified seats are handled, what to expect regarding turnaround times, and why rework of passenger seats involves more logistical variables such as upholstery styles, stitching, colors, and custom configurations. They also discuss how operators can streamline the process by confirming interior renderings early and placing orders well ahead of the three-year compliance window. For full details, operators should always refer directly to the official Alert Service Bulletin.  The full library of episodes is available to listen to on demand We want to hear from you! - [email protected] Need help with your Bell helicopter? - [email protected]

Welcome to Vertical MRO Alerts, presented by Bell! In this Alert, Product Support Engineering Manager Marc Dubé is joined by Sebastien Rousseau, Product Lead for the Bell 429, to walk operators through the recently released Alert Service Bulletin concerning the main and tail rotor hydraulic servos on the Bell 429. This episode explains why the bulletin calls for a one-time inspection of the MCV driver rods, following a supplier notification regarding potential non-conforming components. Marc and Sebastien address the key questions operators have already raised—along with the ones Bell expects to hear. Topics include the reasoning behind the combined 800-hour / 24-month compliance window, guidance for aircraft already undergoing major inspections, and why operators should send servos through Bell rather than directly to the supplier. The discussion also covers expected turnaround times, how unexpected findings can affect lead time, and Bell’s recommendations to help operators minimize downtime. For full details, operators should always refer directly to the official Alert Service Bulletin.  The full library of episodes is available to listen to on demand We want to hear from you! - [email protected] Need help with your Bell helicopter? - [email protected]

Welcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell. In this Bell Tech Talk episode, host Jon Gray is joined by Dawn Lehto and Tad Morley from Bell for an in-depth conversation on the real-world challenges and advancements of autopilot and avionics systems in modern rotorcraft. Drawing from years of hands-on field experience, Dawn and Tad break down common autopilot troubleshooting issues, including friction-related faults, system relearning challenges, and why so many problems stem from long gaps between failures. They explain why knowing how to navigate the manuals before issues arise can save valuable time in the hangar and reduce frustration in the field. The conversation also tackles one of the biggest misconceptions in maintenance—that avionics is harder than mechanical work. Dawn explains why it’s simply a different skill set, why good mechanics already have what it takes to succeed in avionics, and how continuous learning, networking, and system familiarity are the real keys to success. From best practices in maintenance and training to where fly-by-wire and future autopilot technologies are heading, this episode delivers practical insight for maintainers at every stage of their career. We want to hear from you! – [email protected] Need help with your Bell helicopter? Email us at [email protected] or visit https://www.bellflight.com/support/commercial. 

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this, the second part of our two-part Vertical MRO Podcast series, hosts Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries sit down with Don Lockie of Aviation Resource Group, a seasoned expert in international shipping and logistics, to unpack the high-stakes world of moving aviation assets across the globe. Don shares his journey into the aviation industry and the lessons learned from decades of navigating complex logistics. From understanding unique customer needs to managing razor-thin margins, he explains why experience and specialized knowledge are critical when the cargo is an aircraft. The discussion covers the hidden risks of oversimplifying logistics, the importance of risk management, and why building trusted partnerships can make or break a mission. With real-world examples—including aircraft shipments and unexpected challenges—Don illustrates how innovative problem-solving, effective planning, and clear communication keep operations on track. Whether you’re managing fleet maintenance, overseeing parts supply, or coordinating large-scale aviation moves, this conversation delivers valuable insights into the logistics expertise required to succeed in today’s global aviation market. Don also contributed to an article on International Shipping for Vertical, which can be found here. Special thanks to our sponsors, Metro Aviation, Robinson Helicopter and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this two-part Vertical MRO Podcast series, hosts Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries sit down with Don Lockie of Aviation Resource Group, a seasoned expert in international shipping and logistics, to unpack the high-stakes world of moving aviation assets across the globe. Don shares his journey into the aviation industry and the lessons learned from decades of navigating complex logistics. From understanding unique customer needs to managing razor-thin margins, he explains why experience and specialized knowledge are critical when the cargo is an aircraft. The discussion covers the hidden risks of oversimplifying logistics, the importance of risk management, and why building trusted partnerships can make or break a mission. With real-world examples—including aircraft shipments and unexpected challenges—Don illustrates how innovative problem-solving, effective planning, and clear communication keep operations on track. Whether you’re managing fleet maintenance, overseeing parts supply, or coordinating large-scale aviation moves, this conversation delivers valuable insights into the logistics expertise required to succeed in today’s global aviation market. Don also contributed to an article on International Shipping for Vertical, which can be found here. Special thanks to our sponsors, SAFE Structure Designs, Vertical Aviation International and Airbus.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine. This special edition of the Vertical MRO Podcast brings you a fast-paced series of conversations recorded live at the 2025 Irving MRO Conference. Host Jon Gray and Producer David Kreutzkamp sit down with a wide range of voices—from operators and technicians to students, MRO leaders, and innovators—to capture the energy, challenges, and ideas shaping helicopter maintenance today. Across these mini-segments, you’ll hear insights on workforce development, training pipelines, culture building, leadership, parts support, real-world problem-solving, and what keeps people passionate about this MRO community year after year. Featured guests include Lewis University and Rising Aviation students, as well as team members from Leonardo, Leading Edge Aerospace, Ace Aeronautics, Camp Systems, SAFE Structure Designs, TurboLyft and also our friend Dr Kodey Bogart — each offering a unique perspective on where our industry is today and where it’s heading. Whether you were at the conference or experiencing it for the first time through this episode, this recap highlights the collaboration, passion, and shared mission that continue to drive helicopter maintenance forward. Special thanks to our sponsors, Rotorcraft Support Inc, Vertical Aviation International and Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries sit down with Jamie Wood, the CEO and Founder of the bio-technology platform Autonomic. Jamie is changing the way people think and learn about their brains. Through neuroscience based products and cutting edge technologies, her mission is to elevate human potential by bringing personalized brain health solutions to the masses.  During the conversation we explore the critical role of cognitive performance in aviation maintenance and operations. Jamie shares her work with aviation maintenance colleges and organizations, where she has built effective programs to help address burnout and improve focus and mental sharpness.  Together, we unpack how fatigue, hydration, nutrition, and sleep directly affect safety and high performance in the hangar and beyond. This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about human performance, aviation safety, and creating an environment that empowers teams to thrive. Jamie’s work focuses on supporting driven individuals in high-demand environments that rely heavily on their cognitive abilities, this includes helicopter maintainers, executives, leaders, employees, athletes, and students.  Jamie is a speaker, mentor, brain performance expert, and researcher. Having bootstrapped her brain performance technology company and brought a scientifically proven cognitive enhancement solution to market, Jamie understands the unique demands placed upon the brains of highly driven individuals in high-performance environments.  Jamie has worked with some of the most exciting up and coming leaders in tech, gaming, extraction, marketing, student organizations, and big data. Her workshops and training programs are in North America's VCs, Accelerators and Academic Institutions. Jamie has led groundbreaking research studies looking at brain health in high-stress environments using Mobile EEG, and sits on the cutting edge of brain health technology working alongside world leading neuroscientists. She has worked with over 100 founders and is a sought after speaker for Fortune 500 companies and top tech conferences including the Vertical MRO Conference.  Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Rotorcraft Support Inc and Airbus.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this two-part Vertical MRO Podcast series, hosts Jon Gray and Faith Ortega have an engaging conversation with Dale Neubauer, an airfame and powerplant (A&P) mechanic and CEO of HeliLadder; and Drew Benton Jr., owner of Helicopter Maintenance Solutions. During the conversation, our guests explore their journeys in the helicopter community. They discuss the professional challenges faced by helicopter technicians, the importance of teamwork and communication, and the critical nature of ensuring aircraft are airworthy. Dale talks about how his experiences in the helicopter air ambulance sector impacted his personal and professional life. He shares a personal story you won't want to miss that highlights the impact of maintenance on patient outcomes, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in the field. Dale talks about the motivation for him and his wife and Susie to create and launch HeliLadder in 2015, starting from their garage with a shared vision to improve aircraft maintenance safety and efficiency. Dale’s 30 years of experience in aircraft maintenance provided the foundation for creating the world’s first modular and portable workstand.  Driven by a passion for changing how maintenance is performed, Dale and Susie’s work at HeliLadder continues to prioritize safety, comfort, and quality. Dale’s background and commitment underscore the company’s mission to support safe, efficient, and reliable aircraft maintenance, making a tangible difference in the aviation industry through innovative solutions and unwavering dedication. Special thanks to our sponsors, Airbus, Metro Aviation and Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing.