MRO Roundtable

This roundtable consisted of representatives from Fixed Base Operators and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul organizations from the business and corporate aircraft segment. Topics included challenges, lessons learned, and best practices when managing multiple locations/facilities, consistent application of policy, procedures, and quality for the maintenance organization on safety/SMS technological advances, and how to compete with other industries for good technical people.

• Richard Baeder is Vice President and General Manager at Elliott Aviation of the Quad Cities located in Moline Illinois. Baeder began his aviation career in the United States Marine Corps as an aircraft electrical and avionics systems technician. Baeder worked his way from an aircraft technician to Vice President Aircraft & FBO Services at Duncan Aviation before becoming VP General Manager with Elliott Aviation. Baeder attended the University of Nebraska and Colorado Aero Tech, and holds FAA A&P and pilot certificates.

• Chad Doehring Manager of Airframe Service for Duncan Aviation in Lincoln, Nebraska. Doehring was hired by Duncan Aviation in 1994 as an airframe mechanic specializing in Falcon and Hawker maintenance. During his time with the Airframe department Chad was promoted to shift supervisor and then to assistant manager. In 2004 Chad became Customer Service Manager in Lincoln and held that role for seven years until returning to the Airframe department in 2011 as Manager. Prior to Duncan Aviation, Chad worked for Northrop Grumman on the B2 bomber as a structure, hydraulic and flight test mechanic. Chad holds an FAA A&P certificate and Inspection Authorization (IA), and is involved in the Nebraska Business Aviation Association as a board member.

• Vinnie Venditto began his aviation career in 1986 in the U.S. Air Force and joined Jet Aviation (then Midcoast Aviation) in 1994. He has risen through the ranks in his 18 years with the company, beginning his career as a technician and now serving as manager, MRO/avionics. His expertise extends to Bombardier Global Express, XRS & 5000; Challenger 604, 605 & CRJ 850; Falcon 2000, EX & Ez; Gulfstream IV, V and Hawker 800XP, 850 & 1000 aircraft. He is an expert avionics/electrical system installer and troubleshooter. As a department manager, he is responsible for leading, mentoring and training his team while ensuring that FAA, OEM and corporate standards are met.