The Vertical MRO Podcast

Welcome to another episode of Vertical MRO Tech Talk presented by Bell.

In this special episode of Bell Tech Talk, Mark Dube and Tim Doucet sit down with our host Jon Gray to explore the critical role of health and usage monitoring systems (HUMS) in a growing number of Bell helicopters. From their early development to today’s miniaturized, data-driven technology, HUMS have evolved into a cornerstone of helicopter safety and maintenance.

Our conversation highlights how predictive maintenance, powered by HUMS, helps operators prevent potential failures, improve efficiency, and enhance overall safety. Mark and Tim share real-world success stories, discuss the impact of regulatory changes, and explain why data quality is essential to getting the most from these systems.

Whether you’re an operator considering HUMS implementation or simply curious about how technology is reshaping aviation safety, this episode offers insights into why HUMS are not just about maintenance—they’re about protecting lives.

We want to hear from you! – [email protected]
Need help with your Bell helicopter? Email us at [email protected] or visit https://www.bellflight.com/support/commercial. 

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this two-part Vertical MRO Podcast series, Jon Gray sits down with Zina Hullings, management analyst at the Ontario (California) Police Department Air Support Unit; and Eric Weidner, who was Ontario PD Air Support commander before retiring in 2016.

Zina is recipient of the prestigious Blades of Valor Recognition of Service, Courage, and Flight Award, an honor that celebrates 20 extraordinary professionals in the fields of aviation, helicopter emergency medical services, and public safety, who have demonstrated outstanding courage, innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to saving lives.

Zina has had a transformative impact on operations within her unit. Her deep understanding of aircraft capabilities, maintenance programs, and operational needs, allows her to effectively bridge the gap between technical requirements and mission demands. She has been instrumental in managing the acquisition and integration of new aircraft technologies, which have significantly enhanced safety, efficiency, and mission effectiveness.

Despite having no initial aviation background, Zina’s proactive approach to learning about airframes, maintenance programs, and aircrew operations, has empowered her to oversee complex aircraft procurement efforts, including the purchase of multiple aircraft and upcoming additions.

Her leadership ensures maintenance operations run smoothly, aircraft are equipped with the latest technology, and all operational gaps are identified and addressed.

Her ability to coordinate with various departments and stakeholders, while maintaining a focus on safety and performance, has elevated the standards of the entire unit. Through her meticulous management and dedication, Zina has set a new standard for operational readiness.

Be sure to look for additional podcasts on the Vertical HeliCASTS platform and articles in Vertical Valor magazine highlighting the other 19 incredible Blades of Valor Award recipients. These individuals exemplify the courage, innovation, and leadership that define the very best in aerospace and public safety aviation.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Vertical Aviation International and Anodyne Electronics Manufacturing.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this two-part Vertical MRO Podcast series, Jon Gray sits down with Zina Hullings, management analyst at the Ontario (California) Police Department Air Support Unit; and Eric Weidner, who was Ontario PD Air Support commander before retiring in 2016.

Zina is recipient of the prestigious Blades of Valor Recognition of Service, Courage, and Flight Award, an honor that celebrates 20 extraordinary professionals in the fields of aviation, helicopter emergency medical services, and public safety, who have demonstrated outstanding courage, innovation, leadership, and unwavering commitment to saving lives. 

Zina has had a transformative impact on operations within her unit. Her deep understanding of aircraft capabilities, maintenance programs, and operational needs, allows her to effectively bridge the gap between technical requirements and mission demands. She has been instrumental in managing the acquisition and integration of new aircraft technologies, which have significantly enhanced safety, efficiency, and mission effectiveness.

Despite having no initial aviation background, Zina’s proactive approach to learning about airframes, maintenance programs, and aircrew operations, has empowered her to oversee complex aircraft procurement efforts, including the purchase of multiple aircraft and upcoming additions.

Her leadership ensures maintenance operations run smoothly, aircraft are equipped with the latest technology, and all operational gaps are identified and addressed.

Her ability to coordinate with various departments and stakeholders, while maintaining a focus on safety and performance, has elevated the standards of the entire unit. Through her meticulous management and dedication, Zina has set a new standard for operational readiness.

Be sure to look for additional podcasts on the Vertical HeliCASTS platform and articles in Vertical Valor magazine highlighting the other 19 incredible Blades of Valor Award recipients. These individuals exemplify the courage, innovation, and leadership that define the very best in aerospace and public safety aviation.

Special thanks to our sponsors, SAFE Structure Designs, Airbus and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Jon Gray speaks with Adam Garcia, a helicopter maintenance professional whose career spans nearly five decades. 

Adam’s aviation journey began with a life-saving helicopter ride in his youth and carried him through a long and distinguished career in both military and public safety aviation.

Adam served with the prestigious 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, where he honed his technical and leadership skills in some of the most challenging environments. 

Later, he transitioned into public safety aviation, where he became a driving force in the San Antonio Police Department’s E.A.G.L.E. Helicopter Unit. 

There, he was instrumental in building and shaping the program, influencing every aspect of its development — from maintenance operations and aircraft readiness to training, team culture, and even honoring fallen officers through meaningful aircraft markings.

In this conversation, Adam reflects on the evolution of aircraft technology, the challenges of adapting to modern avionics and digital tools, and the importance of strong leadership in aviation maintenance. 

As he nears retirement, he shares valuable lessons learned, advice for future leaders, and his perspective on what it takes to keep aviation teams safe, effective, and mission-ready.

Join us for an inspiring look at nearly 50 years of service, innovation, and leadership, in helicopter maintenance.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Rotorcraft Support Inc, Robinson Helicopter and Rotorcraft Repair & Manufacturing.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this episode of the Vertical MRO Podcast, host Jon Gray speaks with Adam Garcia, a helicopter maintenance professional whose career spans nearly five decades. 

Adam’s aviation journey began with a life-saving helicopter ride in his youth and carried him through a long and distinguished career in both military and public safety aviation.

Adam served with the prestigious 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, where he honed his technical and leadership skills in some of the most challenging environments. 

Later, he transitioned into public safety aviation, where he became a driving force in the San Antonio Police Department’s E.A.G.L.E. Helicopter Unit. 

There, he was instrumental in building and shaping the program, influencing every aspect of its development — from maintenance operations and aircraft readiness to training, team culture, and even honoring fallen officers through meaningful aircraft markings.

In this conversation, Adam reflects on the evolution of aircraft technology, the challenges of adapting to modern avionics and digital tools, and the importance of strong leadership in aviation maintenance. 

As he nears retirement, he shares valuable lessons learned, advice for future leaders, and his perspective on what it takes to keep aviation teams safe, effective, and mission-ready.

Join us for an inspiring look at nearly 50 years of service, innovation, and leadership, in helicopter maintenance.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Airbus, Metro Aviation and HeliLadder.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS, in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this episode, hosts Jon Gray and David Kreutzkamp sit down with MHM Publishing co-founder and co-publisher Linda Reyno, and Leslie Ferry, MHM Publishing’s event director, to give exciting updates on the Vertical MRO Conferences. These events are right around the corner, being held in Kelowna, British Columbia, at the KF Centre for Excellence from Oct. 7 to 9; and in Irving, Texas, at the Irving Convention Center, from Nov 10 to 12.

This is a conference, not a tradeshow. We are gathering this very important community from the helicopter industry to focus on education and networking. This is not about selling anything—it’s about promoting the rotorcraft  maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) community. 

During the recording we focus on updates surrounding the educational offerings, networking opportunities, and locations for the Vertical MRO Conference. 

We also have an opportunity to address the critical shortage of maintainers in the industry and emphasize the need for community engagement and participation to help inspire the next generation of helicopter maintenance professionals.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Precision Aviation Group and Airbus.

Welcome 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 and co-host Leslie Ferry sit down with James Simmons, founder of Avolatus and a seasoned aviation professional. 

We explore his career journey in aviation and gather his insights into the rotorcraft maintenance industry. 

James shares his experiences from his military service to his current role in workforce development with Vertical Aviation International (VAI), highlighting the challenges and opportunities within the MRO sector. 

Learn about his contributions to the Vertical MRO Conference and his passion for fostering new talent in aviation. 

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of aviation maintenance and the pivotal role of leadership and training.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Rotorcraft Support Inc, Robinson Helicopter and Heliladder.

Welcome 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 and co-host Leslie Ferry sit down with James Simmons, founder of Avolatus and a seasoned aviation professional. 

We explore his career journey in aviation and gather his insights into the rotorcraft maintenance industry. 

James shares his experiences from his military service to his current role in workforce development with Vertical Aviation International (VAI), highlighting the challenges and opportunities within the MRO sector. 

Learn about his contributions to the Vertical MRO Conference and his passion for fostering new talent in aviation. 

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of aviation maintenance and the pivotal role of leadership and training.

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

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this two part series of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries have a discussion with Jon Dillenberg, director at the Thrust Institute of Maintenance.

During this conversation, we dive into the critical challenges and exciting opportunities in recruiting and shaping the next generation of talent in the aviation industry.

Jon talks about the Thrust Institute’s innovative training approaches. We discuss leveraging social media and partnerships with high school STEM programs like Rising Aviation High School, to engage youth and promote aviation careers.

We explore the evolving landscape of technical training, the importance of adaptability with new technologies like AI, and the need for smarter aircraft design focused on maintainability to ensure a sustainable future. 

Join us as we discuss the future of aircraft maintenance, how to attract new talent, and how industry-wide shifts can shape the next era of rotorcraft aviation.

Special thanks to our sponsors, SAFE Structure Designs, Robinson Helicopter and Essential Turbines.

Welcome to the Vertical MRO Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS and in partnership with Vertical Magazine.

In this two part series of the Vertical MRO Podcast, hosts Jon Gray and Ronnie Ries have a discussion with Jon Dillenberg, director at the Thrust Institute of Maintenance.

During this conversation, we dive into the critical challenges and exciting opportunities in recruiting and shaping the next generation of talent in the aviation industry.

Jon talks about the Thrust Institute’s innovative training approaches. We discuss leveraging social media and partnerships with high school STEM programs like Rising Aviation High School, to engage youth and promote aviation careers.

We explore the evolving landscape of technical training, the importance of adaptability with new technologies like AI, and the need for smarter aircraft design focused on maintainability to ensure a sustainable future. 

Join us as we discuss the future of aircraft maintenance, how to attract new talent, and how industry-wide shifts can shape the next era of rotorcraft aviation.

Special thanks to our sponsors, Robinson Helicopter, Essential Turbines and Astronautics Corporation of America.