Welcome 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, technical, and insightful look into what it takes to keep aircraft safe, reliable, and ready—especially in high-pressure, life-saving environments where time is critical.

The conversation explores everything from preventative maintenance and emergency repairs to the vital communication flow between mechanics, pilots, and medical crews. Faith also discusses her work mentoring the next generation of maintainers—particularly those transitioning from military to civilian roles—and reflects on how evolving technology is shaping the future of aviation maintenance.

Whether you're turning wrenches or turning rotors, this episode bridges the worlds of flight operations and aircraft support, and is a must-listen for anyone passionate about safety, teamwork, and mission readiness in the helicopter industry.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Precision Aviation Group, Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing and Robinson.