Age: 34
Years in Aviation: 10
Derek Popp currently is a flight technician for the Exelon Corporation based in the Chicago, IL, area. The company operates three Dassault Falcons (2000LX, 2000S, and a 7X). He holds an FAA A&P mechanics certificate and an Inspection Authorization. He received his training at the Minneapolis Community and Technical College – Aviation Training Center in Eden Prairie, MN.
Popp says, “Growing up on a farm in Central Minnesota, I often witnessed bi-plane crop dusting in the nearby fields. Seeing an aircraft flying only 10 feet above a potato field, and hearing the roar of the massive radial engine was always amazing to me. Having an interest in machinery and repairing farm equipment it was only natural to blend the two interests together. It was during my junior year that I made up my mind to pursue a professional career in the field of aircraft maintenance.”
Prop describes his uncle who is a chief of maintenance for a corporate flight department as being a big influence in his career choice and ultimately leading him to corporate aviation.
During high school, he learned about the Minnesota Aviation Career Education (ACE) Camp, a weeklong camp that explored all areas of aviation including air traffic control, flight operations, airport operations, and of course, maintenance. Popp says, “In 2013 and 2014, I had the privilege of being the director for the entire week of the camp. It was an amazing experience that helped me build planning and leadership skills while showing young students the amazing career field of aviation.”
He has served on the planning committee for the annual Minnesota DOT Aviation Maintenance Conference and now attends regional safety meetings to discuss new ideas in corporate aviation safety programs.
Popp’s held several aircraft maintenance roles in Minnesota spending time at Worthington Jet Service, Compass Airlines, Jet Choice, and General Mills before moving to the Chicago area. In addition to numerous aircraft specific training he’s a Flight Safety Master Mechanic for the Citation X, and has training in SMS programs, FAA Part 145 repair stations, and NBAA training for flight department organization and regulations. He’s now exploring the completion of his bachelor’s degree with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in technical management.
Popp says, “I hope to someday obtain a director of maintenance position. I’m always looking forward to my next challenge and finding innovative ways to exceed expectations.”
