Episode 71

This special episode celebrates the legacy of Charlie Taylor as the father if aircraft maintenance. Taylor built the first aircraft engine used by the Wright brothers in the Wright Flyer. He set the professional standards followed by professional aircraft mechanics today.

Special guests are:

• Ken Mactiernan, Director at the Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Association

The professionalism defined by Taylor has served as the foundation of aviation safety as the industry has evolved. Looking to the future, aircraft mechanics are playing important roles in SpaceX, Virgin Galactic, and unmanned drone flight.

The discussion covers many ways professional excellence is fostered today. The Aerospace Maintenance Competition held in ​in conjunction with Aviation Week Network’s MRO Americas lets current and future maintenance professionals showcase their abilities and see how they stack up against peers across the country. The FAA Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award recognizes the lifetime accomplishments of senior mechanics, including John Goglia.

Flight Safety Detectives is sponsored by Avemco Insurance. Mention the Flight Safety Detectives podcast and receive a 5% discount!

Photo: Charlie Taylor and Wilbur Wright attach a canoe onto a new Flyer at Governor's Island New York, October 1909, by George Grantham Bain Collection - Library of Congress Catalog

Don’t miss what’s to come from the Flight Safety Detectives - subscribe to the Flight Safety Detectives YouTube channel, listen at your favorite podcast service and visit the Flight Safety Detectives website.

Want to go deeper with the Flight Safety Detectives? Join our YouTube Membership program for exclusive perks like members-only live streams and Q&As and early access to episodes. Your membership support directly helps John, Greg and Todd to deliver expert insights into aviation safety.

Interested in partnering with us? Sponsorship opportunities are available—brand mentions, episode integrations, and dedicated segments are just a few of the options. Flight Safety Detectives offers a direct connection with an engaged audience passionate about aviation and safety. Reach out to [email protected].

Music: “Inspirational Sports” license ASLC-22B89B29-052322DDB8 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.