Aviation Growth Podcast

In this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, we link up with our friend Steve Tubbs, SVP of Operations at X1FBO. X1FBO provides software and hardware solutions to FBOs around the world, helping operations streamline their day-to-day businesses with tools focused on flight tracking, fuel sales, ground handling, accounting, and reporting. Their company is hosting the industry's first FBO centric conference, X1 Approach, April 10-13th, 2023 in Miami and we chat with Steve about the event and what's planned for attendees and partners. You can learn more about the event at: https://events.x1fbo.com/X1FBOUSERCONFERENCE23 This episode is sponsored by Rizse.io, Autonomous Aircraft Inspection Drones and Solutions.

We're back with new episodes of the Aviation Growth Podcast and in this episode, Gunther Schindl from ASQS stops by the GHC studio for a discussion around Safety Management Systems in both Business & Commercial Aviation, some of the trends we're seeing around new technology, and how they are approaching the development of new products and services for the industry. You can listen and subscribe on YouTube, Spotify & Apple Podcasts. To connect with Gunther on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gschindl/ To follow ASQS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asqs/ To learn more about ASQS, visit https://www.asqs.net/

We linked up with Eric Stuck, CEO & President of Ionic Air Care while at PBEXPO. Eric has had a long career in business and commercial aviation and saw an opportunity to bring a new type of air cleansing technology to the market. He started Ionic Air Care and has developed a line of products leveraging dual-polar ionization technology, providing a new level of air quality for the aircraft cabin. We discussed the start of his company, the key benefits of their product, some of the differences between traditional air filtration, and leveraging the products in new market segments. You can learn more about Ionic Air Care at https://ionicaircare.com/ Connect with Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-stuck-44224093/

This week we link up with our friend Rhiannon Silvashy for another episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast. Rhiannon has spent the last 10+ years in aviation software and recently joined the team at Bluetail (Congrats!). Following the NBAA Maintenance Conference, Rhiannon gave me a ring and thought it would be great to discuss some of the latest trends regarding electronic record keeping and electronic signatures in business aviation. We dig into some of the obstacles (People, Tech, Finance, Regulations) that are preventing the industry from moving into a completely digital world as well as the evolutions that are helping us get closer. We plan to continue this discussion and would like to bring content to the industry that could be beneficial in helping operators achieve a paperless environment. If you'd like to get involved in the conversation or feel like you could provide valuable content, please reach out to us on our Contact Page or on LinkedIn. To connect with Rhiannon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhiannonsilvashy/ To learn more about BlueTail: https://bluetail.aero To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

We linked up with David Bettenhausen, CEO of Aerotrax Technologies, at the PBEXPO in Miami for this episode of AV | CHATS. David and his team at Aerotrax have built a modern platform to help streamline the flow of data and records between Airlines & MROs, providing better visibility into the movement of parts throughout the aviation ecosystem. We talk about their continued growth, their latest MOU with Triumph Aviation, the use of blockchain in commercial aviation, and their recent SOC II certification. To connect with David on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bettenhausen/ To learn more about Aerotrax: https://www.aerotrax.com/ To follow Aerotrax on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aerotrax-technologies/

In this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, we link up with Yassine Moussi, the US Vice President at Jet Luxe, an international provider of aircraft charter, management, and concierge services. Yassine has had an extensive career in aviation, with previous roles at Aircharter.com, JETEX, and Ivory Jet Services, and joined the Jet Luxe team in late 2021 to start their expansion into the US. Yassine and I had a great conversation covering: Yassine's career in business aviation The Jet Luxe business model and plans for expansion in the US Cryptocurrency and the impact on business aviation Maximizing transparency with customers to build trust Jet Luxe's new “Invictus” program & their new partnership with Empress Jets To connect with Yassine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yassine-el-moussi-51aba660/ To learn more about Jet Luxe, visit their website at: https://jetluxe.com/ To follow Jet Luxe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jetluxe/

We were happy to finally get to meet Jim Boccarossa, the Founder & CEO of ProvenAir at the Partsbase PBEXPO event in March. ProvenAir helps owners and operators maintain the Back-to-Birth (BtB) traceability of aircraft life-limited parts and major equipment assemblies. Their platform dynamically builds timelines for these parts so that operators have insight into their complete history. When it comes time to maintain, overhaul, or sell these components, they have everything they need to provide BtB records to their service providers or buyers. In our conversation, we discuss some of the details around their technology, the benefits their customers are realizing through implementation, and their latest partnership with GE Aviation. To connect with Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimboc To learn more about ProvenAir, check out their website: https://www.provenair.com

In our latest episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, we link up with Jose Crespo, General Manager at QC Laboratories. Jose is a US Air Force Veteran, on the Board of Directors for the Additive Manufacturer Green Trade Association (AMGTA), and has spent the last 20 years in aircraft maintenance. QC Labs is an industry leader in NDT for Metal Additive Manufacturing, Aerospace, Defense, and Space Industries with over 50 years in the business. Jose currently leads two facilities, located in Hollywood, FL, and Cincinnati, OH. They hold Quality Certificates including NADCAP, ISO9001 / AS9110, ASNT EBC Audit Program, and most Major Aerospace OEMs. In this conversation, we discuss Jose's career path in aviation, the latest advances in Non-Destructive Testing, and the future of 3D printing and additive manufacturing. To connect with Jose on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-crespo-2a639744/ To learn more about QC Labs, check out their website: https://qclabs.net/ To follow QC Labs on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/qc-laboratories-inc/

Shoutout to Jessie Naor for stopping by at the Partsbase PBEXPO show in Miami. Jessie is the COO at GrandView Aviation, a leading provider of aircraft charter and air medical services. Following our conversation, GrandView was acquired by Global Medical Response (GMR). Congrats to Jessie & the Team! In our conversation we touched on Jessie's involvement in pushing the standards for safety management, advances in Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) for bizav operators, and career opportunities at GrandView. To connect with Jessie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessienaor/ To learn more about GrandView Aviation, check out their website: https://flygv.com/

In this episode of AV | CHATS, we catch up with Lee Brewster, who recently joined Thoroughbred Aviation as Vice President. Thoroughbred Aviation has a great depth of experience in aircraft sales & acquisitions, aircraft management, and aviation consulting. We discuss some of their capabilities as well as some of the technology, tools, and processes Lee is putting in place to continue scaling their fast-growing organization. We also touch base on the upcoming NBAA Maintenance Conference, coming up in San Antonio on May 3-5th. Lee sits on the NBAA Maintenance Committee and is one of the key players in organizing this awesome event. To connect with Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lrbrewster/ To learn more about Thoroughbred Aviation, check out their website: https://www.thoroughbredaviation.com/ To follow Thoroughbred Aviation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thoroughbred-aviation-llc./ To learn more about the NBAA Maintenance Conference: https://nbaa.org/events/2022-maintenance-conference/

Will Dent, CTO & President at AeroParts Now, stopped by at the Partsbase PBEXPO to chat! Started 3 years ago, AeroParts Now is a software provider that helps aircraft parts sellers do business directly with their customers. The APN platform solves a few key problems found in most parts sales operations - integrating ERPs & Parts Marketplaces, streamlining the RFQ process, and building/maintaining an eCommerce storefront. In this conversation, we touch on some of these tools, APN's approach to integrations, and some news about who they are working with today. To learn more about Aero Parts Now, visit www.aeropartsnow.com To connect with Will on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willdent To follow APN on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aero-parts-now/

In this episode, we get a visit from Patrick O'Brien, Manager of Flight Operations @ Execaire! I've known Patrick for the last 10 years or so, and when he told me he had a trip from Montreal down to Florida, I knew we had to connect and sit down to record an episode. As someone who flies, manages the flight operations for a large fleet, understands the business of aircraft charter/management, and is quite knowledgable in technology, Patrick has a very unique, well-rounded point-of-view on the modern-day flight operation. We had a great discussion and hit on a bunch of topics, including: Selecting the right technology partners for your flight operation Building their own Execaire App & the importance of API integrations A modern approach to streamlining jobs for pilots, flight operations, and maintenance teams Managing the adoption & implementation of new technology (ie. Web Manuals, FuelerLinx) Reducing operational risk through proper organizational communication CORSIA, SAFs, and a realistic approach to aviation sustainability Execaire is part of the Innotech-Execaire Aviation Group, which provides a number of services including charter, management, maintenance, sales/acquisitions, and technical services. Their charter fleet has over 25 aircraft, including Globals, Challengers, & Falcons, and more. For more info on Execaire, visit https://www.innotech-execaire.com/ To connect with Patrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-o-brien-655a793a/

Big thanks to Rick Ochs for stopping by to chat with us at the Partsbase PBEXPO event in Miami this year. Rick is the CEO and founder of Spirit Aeronautics, which provides avionics & maintenance services for business & military aircraft. Rick and I had a great conversation, covering: Spirit's new location in Fort Worth, TX The future of Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) Rick's involvement in the ASTM Committee F46, focusing on new standards for maintenance personnel The YAA (Youth Aviation Adventure Program) To learn more about Spirit Aeronautics, visit - https://www.spiritaeronautics.com/ To learn more about Youth Aviation Adventure - https://www.youthaviationadventure.org/ To connect with Rick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-ochs-1299274/ To follow Spirit Aeronautics on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spirit-avionics-ltd/

Big thanks to Rob & Daniella from Zulu Pods for stopping by at the Partsbase PBEXPO in Miami. Zulu Pods was started in 2020, and they have designed a smart, compact product that delivers lubrication to engines without all of the components typically found in traditional lubrication systems. We discuss the design of this component, the 3D printing / additive manufacturing process, and how this product can deliver safety, cost savings, and efficiencies to aviation and beyond. To learn more about Zulu Pods, visit https://www.zulupods.com/ To connect with Rob on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-sladen-mba-9746b327/ To connect with Daniella on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellasladen/

Big thanks to Robin Butler & Cody Beck from Spectra Interior Products & OmnAvia Interiors for stopping by our booth to chat at Partsbase PBEXPO in Miami! Started in 1990, their company provides a full line of soft interior goods for both business and commercial aircraft. Robin and Cody walk us through some of the varieties of fabrics found in different segments of the industry, and the most popular options for owners and operators. We also touch on the advances being made in the development of new “Green” and “Vegan Leather” fabrics, and their positive impact on the environment. To learn more about their products, visit www.spectra-ip.com and www.omnaviainteriors.com To connect with Robin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-butler-64a3198/ To connect with Cody on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-beck-5a325ab5/

Hannah Myers, Marketing Director @ AvSight stopped by to talk with us at the Partsbase PBEXPO in Miami. The AvSight platform is an Aviation ERP, built on top of Salesforce, delivering key benefits to customers in the way of streamlined workflows, robust reporting, and extensive security. Visit https://avsight.net/ for more info on their company & products Connect with Hannah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-myers-2021/ Follow AvSight on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsight/ Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

Sunny & Abby from the Banyan Pilot Shop stopped by the booth to chat at the 2022 Partsbase PB EXPO. Banyan Air Service provides Aircraft Sales, Aircraft Maintenance, and FBO services in Fort Lauderdale, FL. They also have the world's largest pilot shop, with over 5,000 square feet of gear. We talked with Sunny & Abby about what sets their shop apart from online retailers and discussed some of the latest products on the market for pilots. To learn more about the Banyan Pilot Shop, visit https://www.banyanpilotshop.com To learn more about Banyan Air Service, visit https://www.banyanair.com/

Neil Prodger & Eric Schech from Ambry Hill Technologies (AHT) stopped by at Partsbase PBEXPO in Miami to chat! Ambry Hill develops cloud-based services and mobile apps for asset preservation, maintenance management, RFQ and quote management, inventory control, decentralized ERP connectivity, and more. We talk with Neil & Eric about their VistaQuote and VistaSuite solutions, and their approach to solving a lot of the traditional technology obstacles found in most aviation service organizations. To learn more about AHT, check out their website: http://www.ambryhill.com/home To connect with Neil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-prodger-248a3414/ To connect with Eric on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericschech/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine

Alan Spivak from Expedite OBC stopped by to chat at the 2022 Partsbase PBEXPO in Miami. Expedite OBC is a leader in providing immediate time-critical logistics, worldwide through a vast network of over 600+ professional On Board Couriers (OBC). They hand-carry items (aviation / medical / other) that need to get to their destination ASAP. We had a great conversation with Alan about hand-carry couriers and the part they are playing to keep aviation moving. We also discuss their role in providing support for the medical field by transporting tests, samples, transplants, and donations. To learn more about Expedite OBC, visit https://www.expediteobc.com/

In this episode, we get a visit from Emily Deaton, CEO at JetAVIVA. JetAVIVA is one of the leaders in business aircraft sales & acquisitions, with thousands of transactions completed since their start in 2006, and over 100 transactions completed in 2021 alone. After her tenure at Embraer Executive Jets, Emily joined JetAVIVA in 2019 as the VP of Sales, and has quickly progressed her career within the organization, becoming CEO in early 2022. We had a great conversation with Emily and hit on some of the following topics: Joining the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) The origin of JetAVIVA and how they have grown the business to be one of the leading firms in business aircraft Keys to building strong relationships with aircraft buyers Emily's career journey to CEO Shifts in marketing messaging and leveraging real-time data for decision making Selecting and implementing a CEM that will work for your organization To connect with Emily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weber-emily To learn more about JetAVIVA, visit https://www.jetaviva.com To follow JetAVIVA on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jetaviva

In this episode of AV | CHATS we link up with Tim Wade, Director of Environmental, Health, & Safety at Constant Aviation, a provider of MRO services for business aircraft. Recently Constant Aviation received FAA recognition for their implementation of a corporate wide Safety Management System (SMS). We talk to Tim about SMS, the keys to a successful program, the business benefits of SMS, and how to continuously improve your processes and procedures. To connect with Tim on LinkedIn, check out https://www.linkedin.com/in/twade889/ To learn more about Constant Aviation, visit www.constantaviation.com To read their press release, visit https://www.constantaviation.com/media/news/faa-approves-constant-aviation-corporatewide-safety-management-system/

For episode #021, we link up with Rob Polston, CEO of Spartan College of Aeronautics & Technology. Started in 1928, Spartan has trained over 100,000 pilots and aircraft technicians. Spartan has campuses in the Tulsa, OK; Denver, CO; Los Angeles, CA; and Inland Empire, CA areas and offers a number of programs focused on training professionals for the aviation industry. Rob has spent the last 20 years in education and joined Spartan in 2018. In this episode we discuss: The current and future impact of the workforce shortage in aviation Exposing high school students to aviation and career opportunities Spartan's options for educational pathways and programs Mentorship programs and partnership with SkyWest Airlines & Teamsters Hybrid A&P program and the future of VR in education Rising compensations for aviation professionals Changes to upcoming FAR 147 regulations For more information on Spartan College of Aeronautics, visit https://www.spartan.edu/ To follow Spartan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spartancollege/ To follow Spartan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/spartancollege

Today we connected with Jordan Scales for a quick episode of AV | CHATS. Jordan recently joined the team at Clay Lacy (big congrats!) and has been working on an upcoming event with the Central Florida Business Aviation Association (CFBAA), which will take place on April 1st, 2022 at Sheltair Daytona Beach. This event will give students the opportunity to get exposed to Business Aviation - career opportunities, businesses, aircraft, and key players in the industry will all be there. We encourage you to share the event with your network so we can get the word out! To learn more about the event, visit: https://cfbaa.org/ To connect with Jordan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanscales/ To learn more about Clay Lacy: https://www.claylacy.com/

Karl Fischer has an extensive career in sales and marketing management across a number of different industries. A few years ago I met Karl and we brought him on to Flightdocs as Chief Revenue Officer, managing sales, marketing, and customer success for our aviation SaaS product. Karl recently wrote an article on LinkedIn that described the “One in 60 Rule”, how it pertained to aviators and how the rule crossed over into managing sales & marketing teams. You can find the article on Karl's LinkedIn Profile here: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/karldfischer_leadership-salesdevelopment-activity-6889217306774278144-BCPU I wanted to have Karl on to discuss this article, give some examples of how he has used this framework in the past, and provide some insight into how you can hit your goals for 2022. In this discussion, we talk about projections, continuous measurement of metrics, managing sales pipelines, and creating a strong culture of empowerment with your team. To connect with Karl on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karldfischer/

Alex Almonte, Regional Sales Manager at Western Aircraft stops by the GHC Studio in Florida for a conversation with Greg on episode 020 of the Aviation Growth Podcast. Following his time at Embry Riddle in Daytona, Alex became an FAA Air Traffic Controller. After 2 years at PBI, he decided to make the move into aircraft maintenance and has spent the last 10+ years in aircraft maintenance at companies like Starport, Constant Aviation, and now Western Aircraft. Western Aircraft is an authorized service center, certified aircraft repair station (FE6R532N), and worldwide distributor of parts and avionics for many of the world's top aircraft manufacturers and OEMs such as Dassault Falcon, Pilatus, Embraer, Beechcraft, King Air, Cessna, Piper, Kodiak, Honeywell, and Collins. Western Aircraft has become one of the West's largest aircraft services companies, offering maintenance, aircraft sales, avionics sales & installation, aircraft parts sales, FBO services, airline fueling, aircraft charters, and aircraft management. In this episode, Greg and Alex dive into a conversation about: The hidden gem of Boise, Idaho The core capabilities of Western Aircraft Western's plans for expansion & new hangar space Keys to planning MRO maintenance for DOMs Approach to selling products & service in Aviation Alex's secondary career as a racecar driver Cryptocurrency, NFTs, and the future of the blockchain in aviation “Blue H.E.L.P.” - Preventing suicide and supporting the families of officers lost to suicide To connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/almontealexander/ To learn more about Western Aircraft, visit: https://www.westair.com/ To learn more about Blue H.E.L.P. - https://bluehelp.org

For episode 019, we link up with Jay Gallagher, Managing Director at Aviation Search Group. Jay started his career in aviation in the United States Airforce, as a Crew Chief / Staff Sergeant on the B-1 bomber. He has an A&P, IA, and Private Pilot's license, and has over 11+ years of experience in management, aircraft management/maintenance, and flight ops in various sectors to include defense, air ambulance, corporate Part 91 &135, 145 repair stations, and 141 flight schools. He recently joined the Aviation Search Group team in 2021. Aviation Search Group is a search firm that specializes in executive and technical search programs for the aviation industry. They create a strategic partnership by creating a customized search program that focuses on partners' requirements while utilizing their internal recruiting resources. In this episode, Greg and Jay discuss: Jay's career progression into aviation recruiting The benefits of working with a search firm to fill new positions Today's obstacles for employers looking to hire new talent Industry changes to salaries and compensation packages Geographic hotspots for Aviation opportunities Estimated “costs” of bad hires Recommendations for candidates ready to explore new opportunities Working with veterans to find a career in Aviation The power of LinkedIn for career progression To connect with Jay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-gallagher-1987glhs/ To learn more about Aviation Search Group: https://aviationsearchgroup.com To follow Aviation Search Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aviation-search-group/

This morning we connected with Jon Haag and touched on 2 topics that everyone needs to be aware of right now in #BizAv - 1 - The rollout of 5G and the effect on business aircraft and rotor operators. 2 - An upcoming Advisory Circular that will change the way operators can receive MEL relief for installed STC equipment. Thanks for joining me Jon! Has the rollout of 5G impacted your operation? Do you have a list of all of your STCs along with related documentation? Let us know what you think! To connect with Jon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-haag-7314ab1a/

In episode 017 of the podcast, we connect with Bradley Wenztel. Over the last 10+ years, Bradley has built a successful career as a Director/Photographer and has an extensive portfolio of imagery in aviation. In this episode we discuss: The start of Bradley's career in Photography (and Greg's lackluster career in Photography) How he was introduced to Aviation and how he started shooting aircraft His extensive portfolio of Warbirds, including the de Havilland Mosquito, B-25, P51 Mustang, and more Projects with Breitling Watches, Joby Aviation, Kodiak, and Lewis Air Legends Advice for new photographers and creatives kicking off their career The power of networking and social media presence Photography gear and creating quality compositions Check out Bradley's website at: https://bradleywentzel.com/ Connect with Bradley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleywentzel/ Follow Bradley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradleywentzel/

Alex Colindres, CEO of the Registry of Aruba stopped by the GHC studio this week for an episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast. Founded in 1995, the Registry of Aruba has a private-public agreement with the Ministry of Transport of Aruba and is a Category 1 registry, meeting the highest standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The Registry typically caters to ultra-high net worth individuals from around the world, and provides a number of benefits in the way of speed, safety, and aircraft resale value. Over the last 9 years, Alex has helped build the Registry of Aruba brand and was recently named CEO. In our conversation with Alex, we discuss: Options for aircraft registration Ensuring high levels of safety through regulations, procedures & audits The impact of registration on aircraft resale values Understanding aircraft registration categories The story behind Registry of Aruba and San Marino Registry Alex's journey as CEO Implementing organizational change Sustainable practices in business aviation Scholarships for women in aviation To learn more about Registry of Aruba, visit https://www.theregistryofaruba.com/ To connect with Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandriacolindres/

In EP#015 we got a visit from Neil Everett Capano, the Founder of YonderWest Aero, LLC. Neil has an extensive background in aircraft operations and spent time at Delta Airlines, ACI Jet, Satcom Direct, and Gama Aviation before starting YonderWest Aero in 2018. YonderWest Aero helps small flight departments manage crew and passenger expectations with creative aircraft scheduling solutions and the native knowledge required for safe operations. They provide cost-effective solutions for corporate aircraft operators that don't need full-time assistance and are looking to reduce flight crew workload as well as vendor/supplier administration. In our conversation, we touch on Neil's path to starting his own business, some of the major obstacles schedulers & dispatchers face in today's environment, creating custom aircraft management solutions for owners/operators, and more. To connect with Neil on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neileverettcapano/ To learn more about YonderWest Aero: https://www.yonderwest.aero/

In this episode we link up with Andy Nixon, the Co-Founder & President of MRO Insider, an app that connects business aircraft operators and providers of AOG, scheduled maintenance, detailing, parts and GSE rental. Andy is also a co-host of the Jet Blast Podcast (along with Nathan Winkle & Lee Brewster) and was recently named one of NBAA's top 40-under-40. We had a fun discussion with Andy and touched on: Christmas tree installations Andy's story about the start of MRO Insider The key functions of MRO Insider and connecting aircraft operators and service providers (Scheduled Maintenance, AOG service, FBOs & More) Staying focused and prioritizing initiatives as an entrepreneur Evaluating technology and deciding when to invest in a rebuild A modern, organic approach to aviation marketing utilizing LinkedIn Planning for the NBAA Maintenance Conference in 2022 Completing the integration of MRO Insider and Global Appearance Partners for aircraft detailing services To connect with Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-nixon-4609b042/ To learn more about MRO Insider: https://mroinsider.com/ To follow MRO Insider on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mroinsider/

In this episode, we sit down for a discussion with Jim Wiley, CEO, and Steve Tubbs, SVP of Operations, from X-1FBO, a fast-growing provider of integrated aviation software and hardware built to streamline the key functions of FBOs. Jim has spent the last 25 years in the FBO business, on the flight line, and managing FBOs like Priester, Sheltair, Atlantic, Landmark, and most recently Signature. After seeing all of the broken, manual processes found in most FBOs, Jim set out to create a platform to solve them and co-founded X-1FBO in 2015. Over the last few years, Jim has led the key sales, business development, and product development initiatives for the business. Steve Tubbs recently joined X1-FBO as the SVP of Operations as the business kicks off plans for the next phase of scaling. Steve spent the last 7 years at Flightdocs / ATP as the VP of Operations and Client Services, is an Army Veteran, and an Embry Riddle Grad. In this conversation, we cover the story of how X-1FBO got off the ground, the progression of aviation software, focus on “Old School Support”, and what the future of FBOs will look like in the next 5-10 years. Check it out! For more info on X-1FBO visit https://www.x1fbo.com/ Connect with Jim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-wiley-0291992b/ Connect with Steve on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-tubbs-87853a89/ Follow X-1FBO on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/x-1fbo-software/

In this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, we connect with Craig Picken, Founder of NorthStar Group, an executive search firm that specializes in filling leadership roles in the Aviation, Aerospace, and Space industries. Last year, NorthStar was named one of Forbes Best Search Firms of 2020. Craig's career in aviation includes over 2,000 hours as a Naval Flight Officer, stints in sales roles at both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft, some time in commercial real estate development, and now over 13 years in executive search. Craig discusses some of the trends he is seeing in the industry, including changes in the hiring of executives, the entry of young professionals into aviation, PE investment in aviation businesses, the consolidation of aircraft charter and management segment, and the development of electric aircraft. To connect with Craig on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigpicken/ To learn more about NorthStar Group: https://northstaresg.com/ To listen to Craig's Podcast, The Aerospace Executive Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-aerospace-executive-podcast/id1353891134

In this episode, we link up with Ryan DeMoor from Satcom Direct. Ryan is an Embry Riddle Grad and also has an MBA in Economics. The first part of his career in aviation consisted of flying CRJs for Independence Air and then Lears and Citations at Northern Jet Management. Ryan then moved into a financial role at Northern Jet Management and spent 6 years at the Amway corporate flight department as a Senior Financial Analyst. Today, Ryan manages the Aviation Tax and Financial Reporting Solutions business at Satcom Direct and is also a Co-Chair on the NBAA Tax Committee as well as an NBAA CAM (Certified Aviation Manager). In his role at SD, he provides guidance to aircraft owners and operators regarding tax laws, compliance and financial reporting. Ryan stopped by the GHC Studio and had a great conversation with Greg on his career in aviation, some of the ins and outs of aviation tax, the progression of aviation software solutions, and the path to gaining CAM certification. To connect with Ryan on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-demoor-cam-mba/ To learn more about Satcom Direct - https://www.satcomdirect.com/ To learn more about the NBAA CAM Program - https://nbaa.org/professional-development/cam/ To learn more about the NBAA Tax Committee - https://nbaa.org/about/leadership/standing-committees/nbaa-tax-committee/

In this episode, we link up with Martin Lidgard (CEO & Founder) and Krister Genmark (VP of Sales) at Web Manuals. Web Manuals provides a document management platform that significantly streamlines the editing, compliance, review, and distribution of manuals and documents for aviation professionals. They currently serve over 400 customers worldwide including charter, commercial, corporate, drone, and eVTOL flight operations. Greg stopped by their new office in Downtown San Diego and had a great conversation with Martin and Krister. They talked about the progression of their business, growing a bootstrapped multi-national company, the future of technology in aviation, and some of the keys to building a true company culture. You definitely want to listen in! For more info on their products and services, check out the video and links below: To learn more about Web Manuals, visit www.webmanuals.aero To follow Web Manuals on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/webmanuals/ To connect with Martin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinlidgard/ To connect with Krister on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristergenmark/

In this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, we are joined by Tyler Holt, the President of AvSky Jets and Rocky Mountain Air Parts. After a just a few years working as an aircraft broker in SWFL, Tyler set out to start his own brokerage firm and created AvSky Jets. Last year, Tyler also entered into the aircraft parts business with the acquisition of Rocky Mountain Air Parts. Tyler stopped by the GHC studio for a chat with Greg, where they discussed Tyler's journey into entrepreneurship - some of the major obstacles he faced, his determination to see success, his growth of a strong team, and how he came to acquire an aircraft parts business. The podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. The video episode is available on Vimeo and YouTube. To connect with Tyler on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-holt-56ba41131/ To learn more about AvSky Jets - https://avskyjets.com/ To follow AvSky Jets on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/avsky-jets/about/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, Greg sits down with Rhiannon Silvashy, who recently joined Portside as a Senior Sales Director. Portside provides flight departments and aircraft management companies with a SaaS platform that helps with reporting, expenses, budgeting, owner approvals, and more, by integrating with a number of different platforms that already exist in most flight departments. Before joining Portside, Rhiannon worked alongside Greg at Flightdocs (now ATP) for the last decade and was a major factor in the company's continued growth and success during the time. Greg and Rhiannon discuss her journey at Flightdocs, her philosophy for a successful career in “sales”, and the future of technology in business aviation. The episode can be watched on YouTube or Vimeo and the podcast is also available on Apple, Spotify, and anywhere else you may listen to podcasts. To connect with Rhiannon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhiannon-silvashy-49917124/ To learn more about Portside - https://portside.co/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In EP 007, we are joined by Douglas Fajardo, CEO/CXO of Xennial Digital and Sean Gallagan, CEO/Founder of Aviation Workforce Solutions. Xennial Digital is a Virtual Reality / Augmented Reality (XR) company that focuses on immersive learning for enterprise and educational clients. Aviation Workforce Solutions provides consulting services that focus on solving the many challenges of the aviation workforce. Doug and Sean have come together to bring XR solutions to the aviation industry, by providing immersive training and educational courses around aircraft maintenance and operations. They stopped by the GHC studio and discussed some of the problems the aviation workforce is facing today, and how they are building technology to make aviation education more accessible, scalable, and affordable. Greg was even able to throw on the Oculus headset and get into the cockpit of a virtual 737 for a troubleshooting session. We're really excited about this new technology and what it is going to deliver to the industry. To learn more about Xennial Digital: https://www.xennialdigital.com/ To learn more about Aviation Workforce Solutions: https://aviationworkforcesolutions.com/ To connect with Doug: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglasfajardo/ To connect with Sean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drseangallagan/ To connect with Greg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In EP #006, we connect with Cat Wren, the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) at Business Jet Center, an award-winning FBO at Dallas Love Field. Cat has had an exciting career in aviation, starting on the flight line and quickly progressing into an executive role where she manages many aspects of the FBO business. Cat and Greg discuss how she got started in aviation, her approach to building strong customer relationships, the future growth of their business, recruiting new talent, and how they are continuously supporting their community through a number of charities. To connect with Cat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catclay/ To learn more about Business Jet Center: https://www.businessjetcenter.com/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In this episode of AGP, Miguel Gallardo stops by the GHC studio. Miguel has held business development and sales roles for organizations like Stevens Aerospace, PrivateSky, Business Aerotech, Flightdocs, and London Aviation and is a NBAA “40 Under 40” award winner. Recently, Miguel has started up his own business, MAG Aviation Group, where he is consulting for aviation businesses and helping them with a variety of sales, marketing, operations, and technology functions. Greg and Miguel have a great discussion about the power of networking and how long-lasting relationships have helped build a business. This episode can be watched on YouTube or Vimeo or listened to on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts. To learn more about MAG Aviation Group, check out their website at https://magaviationgroup.com/ To connect with Miguel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-gallardo-1800b144/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In this episode, Greg connects with Jordan Scales, Corporate Account Manager at JETEX. Jordan is an Auburn University grad, and has spent time at Textron, Bell Helicopter, Textron GSE, JetAVIVA, and now JETEX, where he supports business aircraft operators with international trip support and services. Jordan has a passion for bringing new faces into business aviation and discusses his views on the workforce and what he is doing to make a difference for the industry. You can find this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast on Youtube, Vimeo, Spotify, Apple, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. To connect with Jordan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanscales/ To learn more about JETEX, visit https://www.jetex.com/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In this episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, Lee Brewster stops by the GHC office to chat with Greg. Lee is currently the VP of Marketing and Engagement at ATP. They have a great conversation focusing on marketing within aviation, the power of LinkedIn, the state of industry trade shows, and the future of the aviation workforce. ATP is a leading provider of aviation software and information services and their suite of products includes Flightdocs, Aviation Hub, ChronicX and Spotlight. These tools are used across every segment of the aviation industry. For more information, visit www.atp.com Lee is also a host of the Jet Blast podcast which can be found on Spotify, Apple and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. You can also follow, watch, and listen to the Aviation Growth Podcast on Youtube, Vimeo, Spotify, Apple, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. To connect with Lee Brewster on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lrbrewster To connect with Greg Heine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

In the second episode of the Aviation Growth Podcast, Scott Ashton, the CEO & President at Aerox, stops by the office to chat with Greg. After holding several key leadership positions in aviation (GE, Gama, AAG, CSS), Scott had the opportunity to move to SW Florida and buy Aerox in 2020. Aerox offers a full line of aviation oxygen systems, parts, and accessories, including TSO oxygen masks and PMA oxygen cylinders. They also operate an FAA repair station. In their discussion, Greg and Scott talk about the benefits and obstacles around owning a business, the current state of the aviation supply chain, the value of executive coaching, the future of the aviation industry, and some of the latest developments in oxygen systems. The podcast can be watched on Youtube or Vimeo and listened to on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else you listen to podcasts. To learn more about Aerox or shop their products, visit www.aerox.com To connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottashton/ To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/

We are happy to announce the launch of the Aviation Growth Podcast, hosted by Greg Heine! The podcast will feature leaders from throughout the aviation industry and will focus on stories and strategies for growing successful businesses. For our first episode, we sit down with Roberto and Stuart, the Co-Founders at Bluetail. Bluetail is a SaaS solution focused on digitizing historical aircraft documentation, protecting the value of the aircraft and making records easily searchable for day-to-day research. Stuart and Roberto share how their unique backgrounds in entrepreneurship, aviation, and product design have shaped Bluetail's development. They discuss ways customer feedback and transparency have helped fuel their growth, and what they looked for in an investment partner before working with Brookstone Venture Capital. Bluetail is currently hiring. To learn more about the company and job opportunities, check them out on LinkedIn or at www.bluetail.aero. Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuartillian/ Connect with Roberto on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rguerrieri/ Learn more about the recent partnership and investment from Brookstone Venture Capital, visit https://bluetail.aero/about-us/pressroom/#press-releases To connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregpheine/