Shows
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 54: Gulf Skies to Game-Changing Tools: Joseph LaCaze of Helicopter Work Aids Part IIWelcome 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, host Val Medved, co-host Faith Ortega, and guest Joseph LaCaze of Helicopter Work Aids take listeners on a journey through legacy, innovation, and the personal side of helicopter maintenance.Joe shares how a childhood surrounded by aviation shaped his passion for the industry—and how that passion evolved into a career rooted in both technical expertise and a drive to improve the tools of the trade. From early influences in...2025-06-231h 03
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 53: Gulf Skies to Game-Changing Tools: Joseph LaCaze of Helicopter Work Aids Part IWelcome 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, host Val Medved, co-host Faith Ortega, and guest Joseph LaCaze take listeners on a journey through legacy, innovation, and the personal side of helicopter maintenance.Joe shares how a childhood surrounded by aviation shaped his passion for the industry—and how that passion evolved into a career rooted in both technical expertise and a drive to improve the tools of the trade. From early influences in the Gulf of Me...2025-06-161h 02
The Vertical MRO PodcastBonus Episode! What’s Ahead at the MRO Conference – Training, Tech & Team BuildingWelcome 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, host Jon Gray sits down with two industry experts who will be presenting at the upcoming Vertical MRO Conference. Chris Matt, with over 36 years of experience at PHI, shares insights into his course on corrosion, highlighting its critical impact on rotorcraft maintenance. Francois Magnan, a veteran in the rotorcraft community since 1981 and currently with Parker Lord, discusses his presentation on the care and inspection of elastomeric components.2025-06-1134 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 52: Inside Law Enforcement Helicopter Maintenance with Richard Weiser Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely, hosts of the Hangar Z Podcast, sit down with Richard Weiser from the Glendale Burbank Police Air Support Unit.Weiser is a highly skilled helicopter maintenance professional with over 25 years of experience in maintaining and supporting helicopter operations.With more than 18 years dedicated to law enforcement aviation, Weiser has demonstrated exceptional expertise in ensuring aircraft airworthiness, modifying helicopters to meet departmental needs, and managing maintenance schedules.2025-06-0947 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 51: Inside Law Enforcement Helicopter Maintenance with Richard Weiser Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Jack Schonely, hosts of the Hangar Z Podcast, sit down with Richard Weiser from the Glendale Burbank Police Air Support Unit.Weiser is a highly skilled helicopter maintenance professional with over 25 years of experience in maintaining and supporting helicopter operations.With more than 18 years dedicated to law enforcement aviation, Weiser has demonstrated exceptional expertise in ensuring aircraft airworthiness, modifying helicopters to meet departmental needs, and managing maintenance schedules.2025-06-0251 minThe Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 50: A Year of Hangar Talk, Highlights & What's Next for the ShowWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this special edition of the Vertical MRO Podcast, Jon Gray welcomes back Val Medved for a long-overdue catch-up on career changes, podcast reflections, and what’s next for VMRO. Val shares how a promotion to director of sales and marketing at Essential Turbines has kept him busy, but his passion for the podcast—and the maintenance community it celebrates—has never wavered. Together, Jon and Val reflect on standout moments from the first year of the show, from ice fishin...2025-05-301h 05
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Tech Talk by Bell – Episode 5: Customer Service Lessons & Supply Chain StrategyWelcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell.In this episode, host Jon Gray sits down with Mike Loeffler and Kurt Nielsen of Bell to explore the intersection of customer satisfaction, leadership, and the ongoing challenges in aerospace supply chains. Together, they unpack how Bell’s customer-first culture has helped the company navigate a rapidly evolving global landscape shaped by geopolitical shifts and economic uncertainty.The conversation delves into the personal paths that brought each guest into aviation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how career diversity and a passion for service st...2025-05-2759 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 49: Maintaining the mission - Faith Ortega and Valor Flight Crew - Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In part two of this special collaborative episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, we continue our conversation with the Valor Flight Crew Podcast team to bring you a unique perspective from the front lines of helicopter air ambulance operations.This episode features Vertical MRO co-host and experienced maintainer Faith Ortega, who shares her journey working in general aviation and now supporting critical EMS missions. Interviewed by Valor Flight Crew hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider, Faith offers...2025-05-231h 08
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 48: Maintaining the mission - Faith Ortega and Valor Flight Crew - Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this special collaborative episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, we team up with our colleagues at the Valor Flight Crew Podcast to bring you a unique perspective from the front lines of helicopter air ambulance operations.This episode features Vertical MRO co-host and experienced maintainer Faith Ortega, who shares her journey working in general aviation and now supporting critical EMS missions. Interviewed by Valor Flight Crew hosts Mike Fadale and Blake Shrider, Faith offers a candid...2025-05-161h 05The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 47: Vertical MRO Conference: Influential Voices on Industry ImpactWelcome 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, host Jon Gray discusses the significance of the upcoming Vertical MRO conferences. Joined by industry leaders and supporters of the Vertical MRO Conference, the conversation covers the importance of networking, education, leadership, and the challenges of recruitment and retention in the aviation sector.The panelists share their insights on how the Vertical MRO Conference aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and encourage participation from all facets of the...2025-05-0936 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Alerts: By Bell - Episode 4: Bell 407 Tailboom Hardware & Fittings – Inspection ofWelcome to Vertical MRO Alerts, presented by Bell!407-24-134 Tailboom Attachment Hardware and Fittings, Inspection OfIn this episode, hosts Marc Dubé and Gilbert Gaudreault, technical experts on the Bell Product Support Engineering (PSE) Team, share insights into recently released Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) regarding the inspection of the attachment hardware and fittings for the tailboom junction which impacts the Bell 407 model.We want to hear from you! - techtalk@bellflight.comNeed help with your Bell helicopter? - productsupport@bellflight.com2025-05-0614 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 46: Aircraft Maintenance Challenges in Mosquito Control: Nelson Reithmaier - Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries sit down with Nelson Reithmaier, chief of maintenance for Pasco County Mosquito Control.During the conversation, they explore Nelson's extensive background in aviation, particularly his time in the Coast Guard, where he worked as an aviation maintenance technician.The discussion delves into the challenges of maintaining aircraft in corrosive environments, and the training and selection process for Coast Guard aviation.We get an opportunity...2025-05-0246 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Alerts: By Bell - Episode 3: Immediate Stop on Bell 505 Aft Ballast Box & WeightsWelcome to Vertical MRO Alerts, presented by Bell!505-25-44 Aft Movable Ballast Box Assembly SLS-706-201-007 Ballast Weights, Cease Use OfIn this episode, hosts Marc Dubé and Mike Vautour, technical experts on the Bell Product Support Engineering (PSE) Team, share insights into recently released Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) regarding the immediate stoppage of the use of the ballast weights within the aft movable ballast box which impacts the Bell 505 model.We want to hear from you! - techtalk@bellflight.comNeed help with your Bell helicopter? - productsupport@bellflight.c...2025-04-2913 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 45: Aircraft Maintenance Challenges in Mosquito Control: Nelson Reithmaier - Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries sit down with Nelson Reithmaier, chief of maintenance for Pasco County Mosquito Control. During the conversation, they explore Nelson's extensive background in aviation, particularly his time in the Coast Guard, where he worked as an aviation maintenance technician. The discussion delves into the challenges of maintaining aircraft in corrosive environments, and the training and selection process for Coast Guard aviation.We get an opportunity...2025-04-2553 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 44: Hoist Ops & Ice Fishing Tales with Jason Quinn – Quinny on IceWelcome 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, host Val Medved is joined by Jason Quinn of the Real ResQ Podcast for a conversation that blends outdoor adventure with critical aviation insight in “Quinny on Ice.”Recorded amidst the chill of an ice-fishing trip, this episode explores the unique intersection of cold-weather recreation and helicopter hoist maintenance. Val and Jason share stories from the field, offering both light-hearted moments and serious reflections on the responsibilities tied to hois...2025-04-181h 30
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 43: HUMS Technology: Insights from GPMS’ Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries - Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray sits down with experts in the health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) segments. These experts are Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries from GPMS. We will explore how HUMS technology is revolutionizing the maintenance industry and is improving helicopter flight safety.This conversation was recorded shortly after Verticon, kicking off with a discussion on the value of attending industry conferences. We delve into the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference...2025-04-1156 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 42: HUMS Technology: Insights from GPMS’ Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries - Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Jon Gray sits down with experts in the health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) segments.These experts are Josh Kethan and Ronnie Ries from GPMS. We will explore how HUMS technology is revolutionizing the maintenance industry and is improving helicopter flight safety.This conversation was recorded shortly after Verticon, kicking off with a discussion on the value of attending industry conferences.We delve into the inaugural Vertical MRO Conference...2025-04-0456 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Tech Talk By Bell - Episode 4 - The Future of Bell Tech Pubs and Digital MaintenanceWelcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell. In this episode, hosts Val Medved, Greg, and Skip, dive into the evolution of technical publications (tech pubs) at Bell, highlighting how the shift from traditional PDF manuals to the interactive S1000D format is transforming maintenance efficiency. Skip shares his insights on the critical role tech pubs play for operators and maintainers, shedding light on recent enhancements designed to improve accessibility and usability.The conversation also explores the latest technological advancements in helicopter maintenance, including the integration of digital tools and tablets t...2025-03-3151 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 41: Inside the 2025 Vertical MRO Conferences with Leslie FerryWelcome 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...2025-03-2144 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 40: Quality Assurance and Mentorship in Helicopter Aviation with Paul SliskovicWelcome 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...2025-03-141h 08
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 39: Aviation Operations & MRO Challenges with Billings Flying Service - Part IIWelcome 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...2025-03-071h 14
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 38: Aviation Operations & MRO Challenges with Billings Flying Service - Part IWelcome 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...2025-02-2856 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 37: Engineering the Future of Aerial Firefighting with Ephraim NowakWelcome 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. ...2025-02-211h 07
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Tech Talk by Bell – Episode 3 – The Science of Track and Balance: Vibrations That Make a DifferenceWelcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell. In today's episode, hosts Val, Greg, and Martin, dive deep into the intricate world of track and balance in helicopters. They begin by unpacking the fundamental principles of helicopter dynamics, explaining the importance of one-per-rev, two-per-rev, and four-per-rev vibrations. The discussion emphasizes the significance of understanding harmonics and resonance conditions, alongside practical tips for adjusting natural frequencies to enhance overall helicopter performance.The experts share their wealth of experience and insights, making this episode an invaluable resource for anyone involved in he...2025-02-141h 12
Valor Flight CrewThe Valor Flight Crew Podcast IntroductionVertical HeliCASTS — your Vertical podcast network — is thrilled to announce the launch of The Valor Flight Crew Podcast, with the first episode streaming now.The HeliCASTS podcast network, which launched in the fall of 2023, is part of MHM Publishing’s growing family of multimedia offerings.The Valor Flight Crew Podcast is now the fifth podcast on the HeliCASTS network, alongside The Hangar Z Podcast, hosted by Jon Gray; The Helicopter Podcast, hosted by Halsey Schider; The Real ResQ Podcast, hosted by Jason Quinn, and The Vertical MRO Podcast, hosted by Val Medved.Produced in par...2025-02-1133 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 36: Arctic Operations Uncovered: A Conversation with Pathfinder Aviation’s Rob Estey - Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Val Medved is away visiting Australia so Jon Gray, and Faith Ortega step in to host a conversation with Rob Estey from Pathfinder Aviation.This podcast episode accompanies an article featured in Vertical Magazine that explores helicopter operations in Antarctica. Be sure to check out the February-March 2025 Aerial Work issue of Vertical Magazine to read more about this fascinating topic.During this series, we’ll explore the remote operations of Pathfinder Av...2025-02-0551 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 35: Arctic Operations Uncovered: A Conversation with Pathfinder Aviation’s Rob Estey - Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, Val Medved is away visiting Australia so Jon Gray, and Faith Ortega step in to host a conversation with Rob Estey from Pathfinder Aviation.This podcast episode accompanies an article featured in Vertical Magazine that explores helicopter operations in Antarctica. Be sure to check out the February-March 2025 Aerial Work issue of Vertical Magazine to read more about this fascinating topic.During this series, we’ll explore the remote operations of Pathfinder Av...2025-01-3152 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 34: Lessons from 53 years with veteran aviation mechanic Mike Broderick - Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray are joined by Mike Broderick, a seasoned aviation mechanic with an impressive 53 years of experience in the field. Together, they explore Mike's remarkable journey in aviation, reminiscing about his early days, memorable experiences, and the legal challenges that shape the industry today.Listen in as they highlight the need for outreach to attract the next generation of mechanics and the unique issues faced within the...2025-01-2455 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 33: Lessons from 53 years with veteran aviation mechanic Mike Broderick - Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this two-part series, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray are joined by Mike Broderick, a seasoned aviation mechanic with an impressive 53 years of experience in the field. Together, they explore Mike's remarkable journey in aviation, reminiscing about his early days, memorable experiences, and the legal challenges that shape the industry today. Listen in as they highlight the need for outreach to attract the next generation of mechanics and the unique issues faced within the h...2025-01-171h 09
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Alerts: By Bell - Episode 2 - ThixO SYN Grease Obsolescence & Lubricant ConversionWelcome to Vertical MRO Alerts, presented by Bell!In this episode, hosts Marc Dubé and Mike Vautour, technical experts on the Bell Product Support Engineering (PSE) Team, share insights into recently released Service Directives regarding the obsolescence of ThixO SYN Grease, which impacts various Bell 206, 407, and 505 models.These seasoned professionals provide additional background context on the ThixO SYN Grease obsolescence, the team's process in finding a replacement, and other helpful insights for Bell maintainers.With a commitment to transparency and support, this podcast aims to provide detailed insights into these directives and enhance u...2025-01-1523 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 32: The Power of Partnership: Kamatics & Rotorcraft's DSX Coatings DevelopmentWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine. In this episode, Val Medved welcomes Scott Hayward to the pod as a co-host. Val and Scott interview two incredible guests: Seth Hardage and Chris Prain. Together, we’ll explore the revolutionary Dragon Skin Xtreme (DSX) coating developed by Seth’s company, Rotorcraft Repair and Manufacturing. In this episode, we’ll uncover the origins of the DSX coating, discussing its rigorous testing and impressive performance in protecting rotor blades from corrosion and erosion. You’ll hear abou...2025-01-101h 14
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 31 - Rotor Maintenance Mastery: Beth Christianos of Leading Edge Aerospace Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this inspiring two-part series, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray sit down with Beth Christianos, founder and director of maintenance at Leading Edge Aerospace. During the conversation, Beth shares her unique journey into the aviation industry, from her initial fascination with helicopters to her strategic decision to pursue engineering over flying. With no family background in aviation, Beth reflects on the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way, emphasizing the critical importance of...2024-12-2051 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 30 - Rotor Maintenance Mastery: Beth Christianos of Leading Edge Aerospace Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.In this inspiring two-part series, hosts Val Medved and Jon Gray sit down with Beth Christianos, founder and director of maintenance at Leading Edge Aerospace. During the conversation, Beth shares her unique journey into the aviation industry, from her initial fascination with helicopters to her strategic decision to pursue engineering over flying. With no family background in aviation, Beth reflects on the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way, emphasizing the critical importance of tr...2024-12-1350 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 29: Instructing the Next Generation With Tristan BeddoeWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Val Medved sits down with Tristan Beddoe from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) to delve into the aviation maintenance engineering (AME) profession. They discuss the various career paths within helicopter maintenance and the vital role of training and mentorship in the field. Tristan shares his own journey and insights on the skills taught at SAIT, highlighting the collaboration between educational institutions and the aviation industry to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation.2024-12-061h 11
RadiovedniKako vemo, da je živalska vrsta res izumrla?Dlakavi mamut, orjaški ozkoglavi medved, ameriški mastodon. To je le nekaj ogromnih živali, ki so jih strokovnjaki do zdaj označili za izumrle. Na robu izumrtja je trenutno več kot milijon živalskih vrst. A kako vemo, da se primerki neke vrste res ne pojavljajo več v okolju? Na vprašanje poslušalke Zoje odgovarja dr. Rok Kostanjšek z Biotehniške fakultete v Ljubljani.2024-11-2306 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 28 - Empowering the Rotorcraft Maintenance Community: The Vertical MRO ConferenceWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode, Jon Gray takes the helm in Val’s absence to discuss the newly announced Vertical Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) conference with an esteemed panel of guests: Linda Reyno, Mike Reyno, Leslie Ferry, and Madison Reyno.Join us as the speakers share their vision for creating a vibrant atmosphere at the conference, explore the crucial role of the VMRO Podcast in fostering ongoing industry dialogues, and highlight the importance of social media engagement within the MRO community.We’ll d...2024-11-2251 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 27 - Survey Says: Insights from Bell and Valley Helicopters on MaintenanceWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode, join host Val Medved as he engages with industry experts Van Wilson, director of customer solutions at Bell; and Brad Fandrich, president of Valley Helicopters.Together, they dive into the latest insights from Vertical magazine's Helicopter and Engine Manufacturers Survey, showcasing Bell's commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction in the helicopter industry.Explore critical topics such as post-pandemic supply chain management, the importance of effective communication, and the ever-evolving dynamics of the helicopter market.Val, Brad...2024-11-081h 03
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 26 - Salus Aviation: Building the Future of Helicopter Maintenance & LeasingWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In today’s episode, host Val sits down with Keir Brown from Salus Aviation, diving deep into the company’s rich history and innovative services that are making waves in the market.Join us as Keir shares his personal journey in aviation and offers a unique perspective on the evolution of Salus Aviation and its commitment to self-sufficiency in the aviation sector. You'll learn about the company’s aircraft sales and leasing services, along with its impressive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities that s...2024-10-251h 08
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Alerts: By Bell - Inaugural EpisodeWelcome to Vertical MRO Alerts, presented by Bell!In this inaugural episode, hosts Marc Dubé and Gabriel Leveille, both seasoned professionals with extensive experience in aircraft maintenance, introduce this new podcast series dedicated to keeping Bell aircraft maintainers and owners informed about important service directives. The team dives into what service directives are, including Alert Service Bulletins (ASBs), Operational Safety Notices (OSNs), Technical Bulletins (TBs), and Information Letters (ILs), while highlighting their significance in ensuring the safety and efficiency of helicopter operations.With a commitment to transparency and support, this podcast aims to pr...2024-10-2213 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Tech Talk by Bell - Ep 2 - The Art of Aircraft Washing: Tools and Techniques That MatterWelcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell. In today’s episode, we dive deep into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of aircraft care: proper washing techniques. We know that keeping helicopters and aircraft in peak condition goes far beyond routine checks; it starts with how we wash and maintain them.Join us as we discuss the importance of using deionized water and the right mil-spec soap to prevent corrosion and damage. We’ll explore how environmental factors—like salt and industrial pollutants—can affect the washing process, especially in EMS aircraf...2024-10-181h 13
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 25 - Drew Califf's path to success: landing his dream job at Bell Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this two-part series of Vertical MRO, host Val Medved and co-host Jon Gray sit down with Drew Califf, a customer service engineer at Bell. Join them as they explore Drew's remarkable aviation journey. This series emphasizes the critical elements of education, teamwork, and communication in the industry. The conversation dives into the unique challenges faced when working in remote areas, highlighting the significance of improvisation in tool use and the experiences of maintaining helicopters under extreme weather conditions. Drew shares valuable insights on...2024-10-1153 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastVertical MRO Tech Talk by Bell - Ep 1 - Equipping teams for success in helicopter MROWelcome to the first-ever Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell. In this debut episode, Val Medved and Bell hosts Greg Judd and Marc Dubé dive deep into the vital roles of Bell Customer Service Engineers (CSEs) and Product Support Engineers (PSEs) in ensuring customers receive exceptional support. Together, these dedicated professionals form a robust partnership that directly enhances the customer experience.The discussion shines a light on the Bell Training Academy (BTA) as a key resource for comprehensive training and education across various Bell aircraft models, equipping support teams with the knowledge they need to ex...2024-10-071h 00
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 24 - Drew Califf's path to success: landing his dream job at Bell Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this two-part series of Vertical MRO, host Val Medved and co-host Jon Gray sit down with Drew Califf, a customer service engineer at Bell. Join them as they explore Drew's remarkable aviation journey. This series emphasizes the critical elements of education, teamwork, and communication in the industry. The conversation dives into the unique challenges faced when working in remote areas, highlighting the significance of improvisation in tool use and the experiences of maintaining helicopters under extreme weather conditions. Drew shares valuable insights on...2024-10-0456 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 23 - Leadership and legacy: A Ranger’s influence in aviation with Reid SeloverWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!Join us in this inspiring episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast as we sit down with Reid Selover, a former Army Ranger turned general manager at Essential Turbines. Reed takes us through his remarkable journey from growing up in Modesto, California, to enlisting in the Army at the age of 17, where he served in the prestigious First Ranger Battalion.After his military service, Reid transitioned to the aviation industry, starting his career at Able Engineering. There, he honed his skills in aircraft repair...2024-09-271h 11
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 22 - Justin Krumlauf: Bridging the gap between mechanics and pilots Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this engaging episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Val and Jon sit down with Krumlauf, an experienced airframe and power plant mechanic, to delve into his fascinating journey in the aviation industry.Justin shares insights from his transition from fixed-wing aircraft to rotorcraft and offers a glimpse into his work on the AC-130 gunship, highlighting the intricacies of troubleshooting complex systems.The conversation emphasizes the critical role of communication between mechanics and pilots and discusses the evolving dynamics in...2024-09-2059 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 21 - Justin Krumlauf: Bridging the gap between mechanics and pilots Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this engaging episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Val and Jon sit down with Justin Krumlauf, an experienced airframe and power plant mechanic, to delve into his fascinating journey in the aviation industry.Justin shares insights from his transition from fixed-wing aircraft to rotorcraft and offers a glimpse into his work on the AC-130 gunship, highlighting the intricacies of troubleshooting complex systems.The conversation emphasizes the critical role of communication between mechanics and pilots and discusses the evolving dynamics...2024-09-1352 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 20 - Maximus Air: Transforming the Aviation Parts Landscape with Sean SinclairWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this exciting episode, host Val Medved welcomes Sean Sinclair, the independent business owner of Maximus Air Limited, based in Acme, Washington. With over three decades of experience in the aviation sector, Sean has developed a wealth of knowledge in providing economical parts for Bell and Airbus fleets.Starting his career as a tech sales representative at Canadian Helicopters, Sean progressed through various notable roles—including sales manager at Aeroproducts Component Services and business development manager at Able Engineering.He also se...2024-09-0658 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 19 - Exploring the Benefits of AI in Helicopter Maintenance Inspections Part 2Welcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, we dive deep into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in helicopter maintenance. Our expert panel discusses the current applications of AI, highlighting its impact on predictive maintenance, supply chain logistics, and procurement. They emphasize the importance of efficient data collection and analysis to support decision-making, improve maintenance practices, and ultimately enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of helicopter operations.The conversation explores the growing acceptance of AI in the industry, focusing...2024-08-301h 12
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 18 - Exploring the Benefits of AI in Helicopter Maintenance Inspections Part 1Welcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, we dive deep into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in helicopter maintenance.Our expert panel discusses the current applications of AI, highlighting its impact on predictive maintenance, supply chain logistics, and procurement. They emphasize the importance of efficient data collection and analysis to support decision-making, improve maintenance practices, and ultimately enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of helicopter operations.The conversation explores the growing acceptance of AI in the industry, focusing...2024-08-231h 14
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 17 - Howie Murray, AME and president of Murray Industries Ltd. Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!"Episode description goes here"This is Vertical MRO.Special thanks to our sponsors, Salus Aviation and Vertical Aviation International.2024-08-1659 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 16 - Howie Murray, AME and president of Murray Industries Ltd. Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!"Episode description goes here"This is Vertical MRO.Special thanks to our sponsors, SAFE Structure Designs and Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing.2024-08-0949 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 15 – Darryl Christensen, A&P, founder and owner of Intermountain Turbine Services Inc.Welcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In today’s episode, we welcome Darryl Christensen to the show. Darryl is a licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic with over 37 years of experience, specializing in turbine engine inspections and major repairs. He is also founder and owner of Intermountain Turbine Services Inc., a company he has successfully led for 31 years. Under Darryl’s leadership, ITS has grown from a parts distribution facility to a comprehensive service center recognized by industry giants like Honeywell. The company has expand...2024-08-0249 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 14 - Passion, Precision, and PT6: Inside Dave Wark's Career Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this second part of a two-part series, we are thrilled to feature an extraordinary guest: Dave Wark. Dave is not only a hot rod enthusiast and an avid lover of Bull Terrier pups, but also a seasoned leader in the aerospace industry, with over three decades of experience.In this special two-part interview, we dive deep into Dave's remarkable journey. Currently serving as the general manager and PRM at CTS Canada, a subsidiary of Kratos Defense Systems on Canada’s West Coast, Da...2024-07-2647 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 13 - Passion, Precision, and PT6: Inside Dave Wark's Career Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In this two-part series, we are thrilled to feature an extraordinary guest: Dave Wark. Dave is not only a hot rod enthusiast and an avid lover of Bull Terrier pups, but also a seasoned leader in the aerospace industry, with over three decades of experience.In this special two-part interview, we dive deep into Dave's remarkable journey. Currently serving as the general manager and PRM at CTS Canada, a subsidiary of Kratos Defense Systems on Canada’s West Coast, Dave oversees the financials an...2024-07-1948 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 12- Leadership and Innovation in Helicopter Maintenance with Scott Hayward Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!The Vertical MRO Podcast, where we soar into the world of helicopter maintenance, leadership, and innovation. In this episode, host Val Medved, and co-host Jon Gray from the Hangar Z Podcast, are honored to introduce a powerhouse in helicopter maintenance and aviation management, Scott Hayward.In this special two-part series, we dive deep into Scott's illustrious career and his transformative impact on the industry. Scott serves as the director of maintenance at Alpine Helicopters Inc., steering both the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and...2024-07-1248 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 11- Leadership and Innovation in Helicopter Maintenance with Scott Hayward Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!The Vertical MRO Podcast, where we soar into the world of helicopter maintenance, leadership, and innovation. In this episode, host Val Medved, and co-host Jon Gray from the Hangar Z Podcast, are honored to introduce a powerhouse in helicopter maintenance and aviation management, Scott Hayward.In this special two-part series, we dive deep into Scott's illustrious career and his transformative impact on the industry. Scott serves as the director of maintenance at Alpine Helicopters Inc., steering both the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) and...2024-07-0553 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 10- Behind the Hangar Doors: Kevin Shead's Helicopter Maintenance OdysseyWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!The Vertical MRO podcast spotlights remarkable individuals in aviation. Today, we delve into the journey of Kevin Shead, whose passion for flight has taken him soaring through the skies and mastering the intricacies of aircraft maintenance. Kevin's odyssey began in 2000, when he graduated from Abbotsford Christian Secondary School in British Columbia, Canada, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. Eager to pursue his passion, he embarked on a transformative journey at Northern Lights College from September 2000 to February 2002, specializing in aircraft m...2024-06-2857 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 9- MRO Leadership: Anthony Saenz's Contributions to Aviation MaintenanceWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!Welcome to the Vertical MRO podcast, where we unveil the mysteries of maintenance, repair and overhaul, and explore the cutting-edge innovations that drive the helicopter industry forward. Host Val Medved is honored to have a true industry luminary join the show for a feature interview. Meet Anthony Saenz, a titan in the aerospace realm. With over 27 years of experience and now at the helm of JASCO Consulting LLC, Anthony's expertise shines brightly in the Arizona skies. But Anthony's journey doe...2024-06-2550 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 8 - K9 Torque and the Huey Vets Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, Hangar Z Podcast hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray take over the Vertical MRO Podcast to sit down with Kris Stone, owner and handler of K9 Torque and the Huey Vets crew from EMU Inc. EMU Inc. derives its name from the radio call sign of a unique unit in Army aviation history, the 135th Assault Helicopter Company. The 135th was a typical Vietnam-era Assault Helicopter Company with the major exception tha...2024-06-1452 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 7 - K9 Torque and the Huey Vets Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this two-part series, Hangar Z Podcast hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray take over the Vertical MRO Podcast to sit down with Kris Stone, owner and handler of K9 Torque and the Huey Vets crew from EMU Inc. EMU Inc. derives its name from the radio call sign of a unique unit in Army aviation history, the 135th Assault Helicopter Company. The 135th was a typical Vietnam-era Assault Helicopter Company with the major exception tha...2024-06-0751 min
Zapisi iz močvirja147 medvedovNa začetku pojasnilo za tistih nekaj sto Slovencev, ki v Ljubljani ne živijo, ali ki se v zadnjih nekaj dneh niso odpeljali v prestolnico po takšnih ali drugačnih opravkih. Na Trgu republike, na tistem trgu, ki je težo slovenske zgodovine in z njo povezane usodnosti prevzel na svoja pleča od Kongresnega trga, so se pojavili medvedi. Na Trgu Republike se po navadi pojavljajo protestniki te ali one sorte, kdaj pa kdaj tudi kakšen poslanec iz bližnjega parlamenta, ali pa naključni mimoidoči. Seveda tudi mladi, ki z deskami skačejo prek legendarnih stopnic mod...2024-06-0406 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 6- Oklahoma City Police Aviation's Marc Foreman Part IIWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! In this two-part series Val Medved and co-host Jon Gray have a thrilling two-part conversation with Marc Foreman, a helicopter technician A&P and IA from the Oklahoma City Police Department aviation unit. Get ready for an exhilarating mix of topics as they delve into tornadoes, aviation advancements, and public safety.As a helicopter mechanic, Foreman provides an insider's look into the world of aviation, covering everything from the intricacies of fixed-wing versus helicopter maintenance to the challenges and rewards o...2024-05-2443 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 5- Oklahoma City Police Aviation's Marc Foreman Part IWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this two-part series Val Medved and co-host Jon Gray have a thrilling two-part conversation with Marc Foreman, a helicopter technician A&P and IA from the Oklahoma City Police Department aviation unit. Get ready for an exhilarating mix of topics as they delve into tornadoes, aviation advancements, and public safety.As a helicopter mechanic, Foreman provides an insider's look into the world of aviation, covering everything from the intricacies of fixed-wing versus helicopter maintenance to the challenges and rewards...2024-05-1743 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 4- The Helicopter Journey of Maury WoodWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!In this episode, Val Medved and Jon Gray get an opportunity to sit down with Maury Wood. In 1992, a move to St. Albert marked the start of new adventures for Wood and his family. From there, it was a whirlwind of after-school work at Avialta Helicopters under the wings of experienced engineers. Summers were spent in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, where he lent his skills to GSH, managing stores and ensuring smooth operations on the ground. F...2024-05-101h 10
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 3- How To Helicopter With Faith Ortega Part IIWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS.In this two-part interview, we're extremely excited to introduce Faith Ortega, a prominent figure in the maintenance technician community known to many through her social media platform, How to Helicopter.Ortega's journey into aviation maintenance began at Southern Illinois University, renowned for its outstanding aviation program. There, she earned a bachelor of applied science degree in Aviation Technologies with a specialization in helicopters, which culminated in her A&P certification.Ortega recently earned her Inspection...2024-05-0350 min
The Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 2- How To Helicopter With Faith Ortega Part IWelcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS.In this two-part interview, we're extremely excited to introduce Faith Ortega, a prominent figure in the maintenance technician community known to many through her social media platform, How to Helicopter.Ortega's journey into aviation maintenance began at Southern Illinois University, renowned for its outstanding aviation program. There, she earned a bachelor of applied science degree in Aviation Technologies with a specialization in helicopters, which culminated in her A&P certification.Ortega recently earned her Inspection Authorization (IA...2024-04-2651 min
The Real ResQ PodcastVertical HeliCASTS Mashup: Introducing Vertical's Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Podcast with Host Val MedvedIn this episode of The Real ResQ this will be another one of our Vertical Helicasts Mash-Up episodes with Jon Gray from The Hangar Z Podcast and Halsey Schider from The Helicopter Podcast. In this episode we introduce our newest Vertical host, Val Medved, who will be hosting the new Vertical MRO Podcast—the first episode drops today. The Vertical MRO Podcast explores the world of helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The episodes feature helicopter technicians, mechanics engineers, and MRO experts who will share valuable industry insight, knowledge and stories that will...2024-04-1859 min
The Hangar Z PodcastEpisode 154- Vertical MRO Introduction & HeliCASTS MashupWelcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts! This will be another one of our Vertical Helicasts Mash-Up episodes with Halsey Schider from The Helicopter Podcast and Jason Quinn from the Real ResQ Podcast. In this episode we introduce our newest Vertical host, Val Medved, who will be hosting the new Vertical MRO Podcast—the first episode drops today. The Vertical MRO Podcast explores the world of helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The episodes feature helicopter technicians, mechanics engineers, and MRO experts who will...2024-04-1858 minThe Vertical MRO PodcastEpisode 1- Vertical MRO Introduction & HeliCASTS MashupWelcome to The Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!This will be another one of our Vertical Helicasts Mash-Up episodes with Halsey Schider from The Helicopter Podcast and Jason Quinn from the Real ResQ Podcast.In this episode we introduce our newest Vertical host, Val Medved, who will be hosting the new Vertical MRO Podcast—the first episode drops today.The Vertical MRO Podcast explores the world of helicopter maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The episodes feature helicopter technicians, mechanics engineers, and MRO experts who will share valuable industry insight, knowledge an...2024-04-1858 min