Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul. Our episodes feature MRO experts wh...
Episode 41: Inside the 2025 Vertical MRO Conferences with Leslie Ferry
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, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray sit down with Leslie Ferry to discuss the upcoming Vertical MRO conferences in Kelowna, British Columbia, and Dallas, Texas.Leslie shares insight into the significance of these conferences for helicopter maintenance professionals, highlighting their focus on education, networking, and hands-on training. The conversation explores the logistics of the events, the unique opportunities for students and apprentices to attend for free, and the vital role of community engagement in fostering the next generation of aviation professionals.From leadership development to recruitment initiatives, Leslie outlines how these gatherings bring together industry experts to share knowledge and drive innovation. The discussion also showcases the stunning venues in Kelowna and Dallas, making a compelling case for why attendees won’t want to miss these enriching experiences.Join us for an inside look at what’s ahead for the Vertical MRO conferences, and how they continue to shape the future of helicopter maintenance.Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Metro Aviation and Rotorcraft Support Inc.
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Episode 40: Quality Assurance and Mentorship in Helicopter Aviation with Paul Sliskovic
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, hosts Val Medved and Scott Hayward sit down with Paul Sliskovic, a seasoned aviation professional with over 25 years of experience, now serving as quality assurance manager at Wildcat Helicopters.Paul shares his journey in the helicopter industry, highlighting the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a mechanic to a quality assurance role. He discusses the evolving landscape of compliance, the importance of mentorship, and the cultural shifts needed to adapt to new generations entering the workforce.The conversation delves into key aspects of quality assurance, including the significance of proper logbook entries, the dynamics of different helicopter systems, and the critical role of communication in maintaining safety and efficiency. Paul also offers insights into what makes a great quality assurance professional, and how approachability fosters a strong safety culture.Join us for this engaging discussion on the future of aviation maintenance, continuous learning, and the importance of adaptability in an ever-changing industry.Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter and Precision Aviation Group.
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Episode 39: Aviation Operations & MRO Challenges with Billings Flying Service - Part II
Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In Part 2 of this two-part series, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray sit down with Peter Yegen and Jed Wagner from Billings Flying Service for a deep dive into the complexities of aviation operations and maintenance.Peter and Jed share their personal journeys into aviation, discussing the influence of family, mentorship, and hands-on experience. They explore critical topics such as risk management, disaster preparedness, and the importance of crisis response in shaping company culture.The conversation also highlights the CH-47 helicopter’s role in aerial firefighting, the transition from military to civilian operations, and the expertise required to maintain these aircraft. They address the ongoing challenges of labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and the innovative solutions keeping fleets operational.With a strong focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and fostering the next generation of aviation professionals, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO).Special thanks to our sponsors, Airbus, Rotorcraft Support Inc and Precision Aviation Group
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Episode 38: Aviation Operations & MRO Challenges with Billings Flying Service - Part I
Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In Part 1 of this two-part series, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray sit down with Peter Yegen and Jed Wagner from Billings Flying Service for a deep dive into the complexities of aviation operations and maintenance.Peter and Jed share their personal journeys into aviation, discussing the influence of family, mentorship, and hands-on experience. They explore critical topics such as risk management, disaster preparedness, and the importance of crisis response in shaping company culture.The conversation also highlights the CH-47 helicopter’s role in aerial firefighting, the transition from military to civilian operations, and the expertise required to maintain these aircraft. They address the ongoing challenges of labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and the innovative solutions keeping fleets operational.With a strong focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and fostering the next generation of aviation professionals, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving world of aviation maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO).Stay tuned for Part 2, where we continue the discussion on adapting to industry challenges and future innovations.Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing and Precision Aviation Group
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Episode 37: Engineering the Future of Aerial Firefighting with Ephraim Nowak
Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this episode, hosts Val Medved and Scott Hayward are joined by Ephraim Nowak, an esteemed engineer specializing in unmanned aircraft, with a focus on innovative applications in firefighting. Ephraim discusses his journey from working with small drones to pioneering the development of autonomous firefighting helicopters. Join us as we explore the cutting-edge technology behind these systems, the challenges of integrating them into existing firefighting practices, and the regulatory hurdles faced in certification. Ephraim shares insights from a successful demonstration of their technology and paints a picture of the future of autonomous firefighting solutions. This insightful discussion also touches on the implications of AI and autonomy in aviation, offering valuable perspectives for aspiring engineers looking to make their mark in this rapidly evolving field.Special thanks to our sponsors, Metro Aviation, SAFE Structure Designs and Robinson Helicopter.
Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, where we explore the fascinating world of helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul. Our episodes feature MRO experts who share invaluable tribal knowledge and stories that are sure to inspire current and aspiring industry maintainers.
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