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