How Top Aerospace Executives Set the Vision, Grow Their Business & Develop Talent
Episodes
6 days ago
6 days ago
In the aircraft parts market, some SKUs fly off the shelves easily, but that’s not the case for every part. Some parts sit in warehouses for years, gathering dust, adding up to hundreds of billions in write-offs.
80% of inventory gets snapped up, but the 20% can’t sell itself. It requires someone to do some in-depth spelunking to breathe new life into these forgotten parts and connect them with buyers.
The industry has long been aware of this problem - everyone complains about it but no one has ever done anything about it.
Until now.
Oyster Aero decided to tackle this hundred billion dollar problem. By getting the surplus inventory moving again, they are helping companies get cash back on written off parts, and getting shunned and forgotten inventory back into the market.
How are they finding this buried inventory and doing the work to get it sold? What inspired the founder of Oyster? In this episode, Oyster Aero’s CEO, Jeff Jerge joins me to talk about how they’ve gained hundreds of clients in just 8 months, and how the company is tackling one of the industry’s biggest problems.
You’ll also learn:
- How Oyster Aero got 450 sign ups in just 8 months
- Legwork behind the listing: what Oyster Aero does to get parts sold
- Why the key to starting your business is action
- How Oyster Aero deals with with part traceability
We’re high touch for inventory that people shun. We’re the Ritz-Carlton for inventory that’s been forgotten. -Jeff Jerge
Guest Bio
Jeff Jerge is the founder and CEO of Oyster Aero. Oyster Aero was founded on the premise that buyers and sellers desire an innovative online deal marketplace within the Aviation Supply Chain. The name “Oyster” was born from the identification of a unique niche offering, paralleling the act of opening shells to find pearls, i.e., there are pearls in every inventory. We are purposeful in cultivating an exclusive community with validated Buyers, Sellers, and Partners that can communicate and transact in a trusted and secure manner. To learn more visit https://oysteraero.com/ or connect with him on LinkedIn.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://craigpicken.com/insights/.
To learn more about Craig Picken, visit https://craigpicken.com/.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Jan 02, 2025
Thursday Jan 02, 2025
An aviation education can turn into an incredible career with countless opportunities to put passion and talent to work. But that requires training programs that open people’s eyes to the different ways they can leverage their expertise.
The industry is evolving, and so the career paths within it have to shift too. From regulatory roles and jet pilots to aviation-trained business leaders, there are many ways to leverage the skills you gain at flight school.
For years, aviation education has been pretty straightforward. But now, schools like Kansas State’s Aviation School, led by Tysen Pina, are shifting the approach. They’re creating programs that produce well-rounded professionals who are ready for all corners of the industry.
Introducing new training programs. Leaning on alumni. Driving excellence at the instructor level. Creating partnerships with different companies in the industry. These are just some of the ways the school is preparing students for more than just airport management. These future leaders are learning how to turn technical knowledge into business strategy and make smart decisions for the future of aviation.
How is Tysen using his military background to lead the aviation school? How is the school training talent for the different aspects of the industry?
In this episode, Tysen Pina talks about how he’s shaking up aviation education and helping students become the well-rounded, business-savvy leaders that the industry needs. He shares all the exciting initiatives he has spearheaded since he took over, and what he hopes to achieve next semester.
You’ll also learn:
- How flight schools are leveraging cutting edge tech in the training process
- How Kansas State University’s Aviation School is attracting talent from far and wide
- The key to training the aviation professional of the future
- Tysen’s journey from the military to academia
I want to grow the program but we’re not growing anything until I’m sure that we’re at an excellent level. -Tysen Pina
Guest Bio
Tysen is the Department Head for Kansas State University Aviation School. As an accomplished aviation operations executive and retired USAF officer, Tysen brings extensive leadership experience in managing complex flight operations, talent development, and process optimization. He currently oversees 500+ personnel, 30 aircraft, and a $7M budget, while executing over 17,000 annual flight hours. Previously, Tysen held leadership roles in the USAF, commanding teams of 300+ members and spearheading critical missions and organizational improvements. He has successfully managed operations, led strategic planning, and driven performance enhancements across multiple roles, including director-level positions in aviation and airborne command & control. Tysen is passionate about developing future leaders and optimizing processes to boost efficiency and performance.
Connect with him on LinkedIn.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Dec 26, 2024
Thursday Dec 26, 2024
In the aerospace industry, growth and innovation aren’t just buzzwords—they're vital for survival in one of the most competitive sectors in the world.
This year, I had the privilege of sitting down with some of the most forward-thinking leaders, companies that have not only weathered the turbulence of today’s challenges but have come out stronger on the other side.
From supply chain crises to strategic turnarounds, these conversations offer a deep dive into what it takes to succeed in aerospace today. In this special highlight episode, we’re revisiting some of the best insights shared by industry leaders who are driving change and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
You’ll hear about:
- The Aircraft Shortage That Won’t Go Away
- Turning a 60-Year-Old Company into a Market Leader
- Why Efficiency is Everything for Mid-Sized MROs
- Why Small Suppliers Make the Biggest Impact
- A Masterclass in Growth Rate Management
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Dec 12, 2024
Thursday Dec 12, 2024
The airline industry is renowned for its safety, but the pandemic threw a curveball into the mix. The world was forced to grapple with new realities of travel, and even though it was a challenge, it also presented new opportunities that the industry can go after.
Fleet flexibility, operational efficiency, and paying attention to demographic shifts—these are some ways the industry can adapt and pivot. Airlines have been forced to reimagine their models and rethink how they deliver value to customers, while balancing cost structures and new health and safety protocols.
Former Spirit Airlines CEO, Ben Baldanza, joined me on the show back in 2021 to discuss these critical changes in the aviation industry. He shared his insights on how airlines could navigate the turbulent times ahead, emphasizing the importance of adapting to shifting travel demands, especially as corporate business travel declined and more passengers prioritized low-cost options.
In sad news, Ben passed away recently, and I wanted to take this moment to remember him and the tremendous impact he made on the aviation industry. This episode is a special replay of my conversation with Ben.
Ben is known for his visionary leadership at Spirit, candid commentary on the future of air travel, and his unwavering commitment to making the industry more accessible and efficient for all travelers. His legacy continues to shape the industry, and we are grateful for the lasting mark he left on it.
The idea is to make flying touchless, with less time spent face to face. The virus will end at some point, but the sense of risk has changed completely. -Ben Baldanza
Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- Why the future of flying is touch-free
5 years from now touchless check-ins and minimal personal contact will be a norm and will be worthy investments. - What the pandemic means for bigger planes
It could take a couple of years to build back demand. Smaller, narrow-body aircraft such as the Boeing 737 Max, Airbus A320s, and A321s will have an advantage. - How aviation has prioritized safety since the start of the virus
From the onset of the coronavirus, the aviation industry has done its part in visible safety precautions, from mask mandates to putting up shields at airports. As an industry, we’ve shown an operational AND biological commitment to safety.
Guest Bio -
Ben Baldanza was an industry veteran. Previously the CEO and President of Spirit Airlines, and then he served as the CEO for Diemacher, LLC, and was an Independent Board Director at JetBlue Airways. Ben was also a Forbes Contributor, co-host of the Airlines Confidential Podcast, and was featured on multiple platforms including Fox Business News, The Today Show, and CNBC. Ben was an Adjunct Professor of Economics at George Mason University.
To find out more, go to:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/b-ben-baldanza
https://www.forbes.com/sites/benbaldanza/
https://diemacherllc.com/about
https://airlinesconfidential.com/
Learn More About Your Host:
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to download the Apple Podcast app and leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Dec 05, 2024
Thursday Dec 05, 2024
The business jet maintenance industry faces a persistent challenge: getting aircraft out on time and on budget seems nearly impossible. At the core of this issue? Labor shortages, high turnover, and a lack of skilled talent.
Hiring new mechanics is costly, the learning curve is steep, and customers ultimately bear the financial burden. While many have tried to solve these issues, Jets MRO took a bold, innovative approach that’s transforming the game.
What if the secret to better bizjet MRO performance lies in treating mechanics with respect and offering them a compelling reason to stay? By prioritizing technician satisfaction and retention, Jets MRO has cracked the code for delivering top-tier service without the delays and cost overruns.
In this episode, Jets MRO founder and CEO Suresh Narayanan reveals how his company is tackling the labor crisis head-on, building a culture that retains top talent, and reshaping the way bizjet maintenance is done.
Tune in to discover:
- The origin story of Jets MRO.
- The innovative strategies they use to overcome MRO labor challenges.
- Why prioritizing people leads to better outcomes for customers and the industry.
If you're in the aviation or MRO space, this is the must-listen episode for you.
Guest Bio
Suresh Narayanan is the founder and CEO of Jets MRO. He is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and visionary leader with deep roots in aviation. With a passion for aviation and an unyielding commitment to people first, Suresh continues to raise the bar in how the industry treats its people. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and an MBA from Southern Methodist University. A pilot himself, Suresh’s interest in aviation began at a young age in the repair station his parents opened after his father completed his career as a Concorde mechanic. Before incorporating Jets MRO, he worked alongside his brother Raj at Aerospace Quality Research & Development (AQRD), contributing significantly to the growth and success of the aerospace engineering, repair station, and military jet modification firm.
Suresh brings invaluable experience as the former COO of JSX and boasts expertise in aviation mergers and acquisitions, steering ventures towards success. He is a proud member of the YPO-North Texas chapter and serves as a dedicated Board Member at the Frontiers of Flight Museum. With a blend of hands-on experience and commitment to driving innovation in the aviation industry, Suresh is poised to lead Jets MRO towards unparalleled heights of success. To learn more visit https://jetsmro.com/ and
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
As the aerospace and defense industry continues to face supply resiliency issues coupled with talent shortages, India has emerged as a solution.
Many marquee OEMs have been able to harness the full capabilities that can be found in India and gain all the benefits of manufacturing there.
Jeh Aerospace is helping US companies unlock the talent pool, manufacturing and state of the art technology that has flourished in India, and they are just getting started.
A rising tide lifts all ships, so the goal isn’t just to solve the issues of one market, it’s to ultimately serve the global supply chain and solve the shortages and delays that way.
What global trends have made aerospace and defense giants look to India? How is Jeh Aerospace working to transform the industry on a global scale?
In this episode, co-founder and CEO of Jeh Aerospace, Vishal Sanghavi shares the organization’s story, how they established an incredible footprint in India, and how they are solving the supply chain issues that have plagued this industry for years.
Many times people make perceptions on one experience they had with India. India is very large and diverse. It’s important to partner with the right people if you want the best of India. -Craig Picken
Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- Unlocking the potential of India
A lot of marquee OEMs have turned to India. Who are some of Jeh Aerospace’s clients? - Talent pool meets technology
It’s no secret that labor shortages in the US have become more pronounced. How is India stepping in to solve the problem? What else can the nation do for aerospace and defense? - Jeh Aerospace’s ultimate play
Solving the supply resiliency issue isn’t just about serving one market. How does Jeh Aerospace plan to lift the entire field?
Guest Bio
Vishal R. Sanghavi is the co-founder & CEO of Jeh Aerospace. He has been a leader in the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry for nearly two decades. He co-founded Jeh Aerospace in 2022 with his long-time colleague Venkatesh Mudragalla. This US-based company manufactures aerospace and defense components to address the industry's global supply chain constraints. Vishal is on a mission to transform aerospace manufacturing by harnessing the power of advanced technologies like robotic automation, AI, and AR/VR and leveraging the vast talent pool of countries like India through friend-shoring. He is building Jeh Aerospace into a new-age technology-driven manufacturing company that will deliver stringent-quality flying parts 10x faster, better, and cheaper. Vishal’s entrepreneurial journey began at the renowned Tata Group, where he built and led large multimillion-dollar businesses and became one of the youngest CXOs for the group. He spearheaded numerous aerospace businesses during his tenure, including the Tata Boeing Joint Venture (JV), Tata Sikorsky JV, and Tata Lockheed JV, which manufactures large and complex aerospace systems. To learn more, visit https://jeh.aero/.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
Thursday Nov 07, 2024
Many people think military leadership is as simple as giving orders and people just blindly following them. They couldn’t be more mistaken.
While people will do what they’re told, this “sir, yes, sir” style of leadership doesn’t lead to high performance. It leads to a workforce that begrudgingly follows orders and passive aggressively does the bare minimum.
Getting people to take pride in their work and do it joyfully is a completely different ball game. It starts with a leadership style that’s more heart-centered, shifting from being transactional to being relational. A caring leader enhances the performance of a team, and it’s often as simple as learning the names of everyone in the organization.
How can leaders show people that they care? Why do commuting CEOs kill morale? What are the 3 facets of leading from the heart?
In this episode, retired Two-Star Admiral, my former colleague and aerospace and defense leader, Mike Manazir returns. He talks about his new book, “Learn How to Lead to Lead From the Heart” and why heart-led organizations outperform other companies.
Don’t ever assume you know what the workforce is feeling or worried about until they tell you. -Mike Manazir
Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- What actually drives military performance (it’s not giving orders)
Some people think leading is as easy as giving an order and people will follow it. Why is there a lot more to it? - The most powerful thing a leader can do
In any organization, recognition fuels performance. How can something as simple as a leader knowing everyone’s names fire them up? - What dysfunctional workplaces have in common
It’s not hard to identify a workplace that’s not being led well. What are the telltale signs of poor leadership? - Transactional leadership vs. leading from the heart
In this era of remote work and private equity, we’re starting to see CEOs who are okay with commuting. Why does this communicate a negative message to the workforce?
Guest Bio
Mike Manazir is a graduate of Top Gun and commanded an F-14 squadron, the USS Nimitz aircraft carrier, and a Carrier Strike Group. Mike retired as a Two-Star Admiral and is now an executive with a Fortune 100 aerospace and defense company. He is the author of the new book, “Learn How to Lead to Lead From the Heart”. Mike mentors a leadership style based on heart and trust that champions inclusion. Mike believes if you have one or more people looking to you to show the way, you are a leader. He wants to help you be the best leader you can be so you can Lead to Win.
For more information about Mike’s book head to https://mikemanazir.com/.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Thursday Oct 31, 2024
Whether you’re in the Blue Angels, on the flight deck of an aircraft carrier or an elite athlete, being on a high performing team isn’t about you. Your success depends on working together, sacrificing, covering for each other and collaborating.
In order to do this right, everyone on the team has to hold up their end of the bargain. The leader has to be willing to hold up a mirror to their own performance and be the basis of all the values they want the team to have.
The team member has to carry their weight. Collectively, the organizational mission has to precede the personal mission.
The moment you have a group of people with their own agendas is the moment performance and ultimately, results get compromised. How do we uphold the 5 core tenants of high performance teams? How do high performance teams have hard conversations?
In this episode, aviation executive, pilot, speaker, former Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels and author of High Trust Leadership, George Dom returns to share how great teams operate, learn from mistakes and work towards their goals.
When you’re a team, your success depends on you working together, sacrificing, covering for each other and collaborating. -George Dom
Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- 5 questions to ask yourself everyday
There are interconnected things every single high performance team needs to have. How do we make them part of our daily routines? - Every organization needs a post-flight debrief
One of the biggest gaps is corporate America is the inability for leaders to give and get candid feedback. Why is it so important for teams not to shy away from holding a mirror up to their own performance? - High performance team vs. high performance person
You either have a team or a group of individuals with their own agendas. What are the core characteristics of a real team?
Guest Bio
George is an aviation executive, pilot, speaker and former Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels. Today he is the COO of ACI Jet and the author of the new book, “High Trust Leadership: How to Build a High-Performance Team”. Through inspiring keynotes, engaging workshops, and expert coaching, George shares critical lessons on leadership, team-building, and high performance based on his 26-year Navy career that included aerial combat missions, flight leader of the Blue Angels, and Topgun instructor. Participants learn the skills that transform managers into leaders and groups into cohesive teams -- High-Trust Leadership and Focused Engagement. To learn more go to https://georgedom.com/ and connect with George on LinkedIn.
Buy the book “High Trust Leadership: How to Build a High-Performance Team” here.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Oct 24, 2024
Thursday Oct 24, 2024
Airplanes aren’t retiring the way they used to. They are more sophisticated than ever before. They are staying around longer and they are getting larger with each generation.
This creates a challenge and a lot of complexity for MRO but also a massive opportunity.
How do you run an organization with the capacity, talent and sheer size to support all of this growth?
That’s something West Star Aviation has figured out at a really high level. As a 77-year old company, the business has a storied legacy. But what they’ve accomplished recently is impressive and they are only getting started!
The MRO ecosystem has a lot of demand to go around and a huge customer base to serve, and this is great news. What is the secret to their success? Why did the integration with Jet East go so well?
In this episode, I’m joined by the CEO and COO of West Star Aviation, Stephen Maiden and Allen McReynolds. They share their story, how they are solving the talent shortage and why there’s so much business to go around right now.
Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- An incredible success story
West Star Aviation has been around for 77 years. How have they turned a storied legacy into the incredible growth they’ve seen in the last few years?
- The ecosystem has a ton of demand
Airplanes aren’t retiring how they used to. How will this shape the next decade of MRO?
- The fastest, smoothest, greatest integration in aviation
When Jet East and West Star came together, they became a bigger force in the marketplace. Why did this integration work so well?
- How to find strong technical talent
The aviation talent shortage is something we’re all aware of. How do we get young people interested in fixing airplanes?
Guest Bio
Stephen Maiden is the CEO of West Star Aviation. Allen McReynolds is the president and COO at West Star Aviation. With over 75 years of industry experience, West Star Aviation stands as a leading independent Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) provider. Employing over 3,000 professionals, we offer comprehensive services from our strategically located full-service facilities in East Alton, IL; Grand Junction, CO; Chattanooga, TN; Millville, NJ; Perryville, Missouri; and Statesville, NC, as well as satellite locations in Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, Chicago, and West Palm Beach. Our extensive capabilities encompass maintenance, paint, interior, and avionics services, supported by the largest Aircraft On Ground (AOG) network in the country, ensuring prompt and reliable mobile repair services nationwide. To learn more, head to https://www.weststaraviation.com/.
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
For more aerospace industry news & commentary: https://craigpicken.com/insights/. To learn more about Craig Picken and the NorthStar Group, visit https://craigpicken.com/.
Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you!
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
With the recent Boeing and Textron strikes, it seems the business of manufacturing new planes just can’t catch a break.
These labor woes are just another challenge clobbering the production and availability of new aircraft, and we have to brace for a challenging few weeks (or months).
Unfortunately, this could be the tip of the iceberg that can trickle down, but it’s not all bad news for the whole industry. There is a glimmer of hope - the aftermarket.
Since the pandemic, this side of the business has been white hot, and the strikes are set to make it hotter. That means a strong M&A market, deals at good multiples and a perfect opportunity for owners looking to cash out.
Why is manufacturing’s loss the aftermarket’s gain? How can we expect strikes to affect every sector of the industry? How did smaller companies get ahead of it?
In this episode, President of Alderman & Company, Bill Alderman returns for his quarterly M&A update. Today, we discuss the recent strikes and how they will shape the rest of 2024.
Three Things You’ll Learn In This Episode
- You can’t change the rules of capitalism
The cash injection of covid was necessary but we weren’t going to escape scot-free. What’s driving the issues in labor right now? - The beauty of being small and nimble
When inflation puts a squeeze on wages, the big corporations have the hardest time. How were smaller companies able to get ahead of strikes? - Production problems = the aftermarket’s advantage
The aerospace and defense strikes are going to hit airplane production with another challenge. Why will this make the aftermarket more lucrative?
Guest Bio
William H. Alderman (Bill) is the Founding Partner of Alderman & Company. Bill is an M&A specialist in the middle market of the aerospace and defense industry with over $2 billion in mergers and acquisition-related transactions to his name. Prior to founding Alderman & Company in 2001, Bill worked for 15 years on Wall Street and in the Aerospace & Defense Industry, principally on M&A transactions in the middle market. His employers included BT Securities, Fieldstone, and General Electric. Bill is a Securities Principal registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) and has four securities industry licenses (Series 7, 24, 63, and 65). Bill is a commercial pilot and owns and operates a Cirrus SR22.
- URL Link: https://www.aldermanco.com/
- LinkedIn - William Alderman https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamalderman/
About Your Host
Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years’ experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women’s Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.
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