Johnny Wildman says he has always had a passion for the mechanical side of things. Everything from taking apart the VCR as a young kid to rebuilding engines at 16. After high school, he went to school for a degree in mechanics with the intention of becoming a luxury automotive mechanic. "During this time, my mom wanted to become a pilot so much that she and my dad went out and bought a 1953 Piper Tri-Pacer," he said. "For the annual, they took the plane to Gryphon Aircraft and my dad had a conversation with Glen (owner) about my interests and said I would be willing to help out around the shop after school. This is where my passion for planes and the mechanical side of planes started."
He continued to go each day to the shop after school and when the annual was complete on the Tri-Pacer, Glen asked if he wanted to continue learning and working part-time. "This then led to a full-time position and the idea of working on cars as a profession was no more," he explained.
Wildman has worked at Gryphon Aircraft since the start of his career, beginning as just a shop intern. "I have witnessed and worked alongside Glen as the shop has grown from working on several different small planes to becoming an award-winning Cirrus service center," he mentioned. "The relationships and knowledge I have gained has allowed me to confidently run the shop, employees and continue to grow the business in ways I'm not sure I would have known as a 20-year-old kid."
Wildman says he has always had a passion for the next generation of kids and loves sharing his passion and knowledge with those who may not have the opportunity to experience airplanes up close and personal. He has been involved with a local group called Wings & Rotors Academy that holds classes, workshops and experiences for kids. "I will host a workshop on aircraft maintenance for the kids, who knows, maybe my next 20-year-old shop kid will transpire from a love that is sparked in a workshop," he said. "I also work with many flight instructors and teach the importance of maintaining the aircraft to ensure they are able to pass down as much knowledge and preparation to their students. As a shop, we extend a gratitude discount to customers who are involved with Angel Flight. We love to hear and share their important stories as well."
In the next year, Wildman plans to complete and obtain his private pilot license. "I am working towards helping Glen retire from the business side of Gryphon Aircraft in which I will then continue to grow the business and expand my knowledge and career as a business owner," he explained.
Glen Kratz, Owner/Accountable Manager, Gryphon Aircraft Services LLC, who nominated Wildman commented that John has been a "valued, hard working employee for more than15 years. He has quickly moved from apprentice mechanic to a full fledged A&P and is now ready to earn his Inspection Authorization. His leadership and desire to get industry training has driven him to be a very effective leader and great at customer service. His efforts were instrumental in Gryphon earning a Cirrus ASC award for 2019. His mechanical skills are some of the best that I have worked with in the industry. His dedication to the client is amazing and continually puts them and the business ahead of self. He continually strives to improve himself and the shop. He is most deserved of recognition."
